Consent has been granted for a new 13.3km overhead power line in Scotland following a public inquiry.
- The 275kV line will connect Creagh Dhubh substation to the existing network at Glen Lochy.
- This infrastructure project is a part of a larger strategy to upgrade energy transmission across Argyll and Kintyre.
- The public inquiry was triggered by an objection from the local council, causing increased costs.
- SSEN Transmission advocates for planning system reforms to prevent such costly delays in future projects.
The Scottish Ministers have given the go-ahead for a significant infrastructure project—a 13.3km, 275kV overhead power line stretching from Creagh Dhubh substation to the existing network at Glen Lochy. This development follows a public local inquiry, which was necessitated by an objection from the Argyll and Bute Council. Despite no other statutory stakeholders raising objections, the inquiry brought considerable delays and additional financial burdens due to factors such as supply chain and inflationary pressures.
This new overhead line is a vital component in the broader strategy to enhance the electricity transmission network across Argyll and Kintyre. By upgrading from 132kV to 275kV, the project aims to facilitate the growth of renewable energy throughout the region. It is integrated into the Pathway to 2030 programme, a monumental £20bn initiative by SSEN Transmission intended to generate thousands of jobs and boost both local and national economies. The overarching objective is to connect and distribute homegrown renewable energy efficiently to meet both UK and Scottish Governments’ clean energy targets.
The public inquiry, initiated in response to the local council’s objection, underscored the necessity for systematic reform in planning processes, according to SSEN Transmission. The company emphasised how such delays undermine efforts to establish a secure and economical energy infrastructure for future generations. Tony Scott, SSEN Transmission’s director of capital development and delivery, stated: “We also believe today’s outcome strengthens the widespread calls for reforms to our planning system to avoid unnecessary and costly delays. Such delays are not in anyone’s interests, whether from the point of view of local jobs and investment, the uncertainty caused to communities, or of course in relation to critical national infrastructure projects that are essential to delivering a cleaner, more secure and affordable energy system for current and future generations.”
SSEN Transmission has committed to working diligently with the local community and stakeholders. The company aims to minimise the construction impact while maximising economic opportunities in Argyll and Kintyre. They assure local stakeholders that their expertise and responsible development practices will guide the construction phase, ensuring the region benefits from the enhancements without undue disruption.
The approval of the new overhead line marks a crucial step in advancing Scotland’s energy infrastructure, reinforcing the need for efficient planning reforms.
