Perth and Kinross Council's Planning and Placemaking Committee has granted planning permission in principle for the infrastructure needed to install a new underground electricity transmission link between Kinardochy and Errochty substations in Perthshire.

The scheme will deliver two 132kV underground cables, each around 4km in length, connecting the two sites near Tummel Bridge. It forms a key element of plans to uprate the Beauly to Denny overhead line from 275kV to 400kV, increasing transmission capacity to support clean power ambitions and enhance energy security.

The permission, which is subject to conditions, covers permanent access routes, temporary construction compounds and temporary site entrances associated with the works. The cables themselves do not require planning permission and will be installed under permitted development rights, laid in trenches along a defined construction corridor with measures to keep activity safely segregated from livestock.

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Construction is expected to begin early next year, with completion targeted for 2031. United Infrastructure, the project's principal contractor, intends to hold a 'Meet the Buyer' event in the coming months to inform local businesses about opportunities to support the project. SSEN Transmission will also work with the contractor and nearby communities to identify wider community benefits and deliver a positive legacy.

Kevin Rooney, SSEN Transmission Project Manager, said: "We welcome the Council's decision, which marks an important milestone for the Kinardochy to Errochty project and our wider plans to upgrade the Beauly to Denny line to 400kV operation.

"We're grateful to everyone who has taken the time to engage with us and help shape our plans. As we move towards construction, we'll continue working closely with local communities and businesses to identify opportunities for the project to deliver lasting benefits for the area."