Move to block new development for Beauly-Denny power line

Published on Wednesday 8 April 2009 22:08

PROPOSALS for an electricity station that would be a key part of the controversial Beauly-Denny power-line upgrade are set to be blocked by planners.

Highland Council officials are recommending permission be refused for an electrical converter substation at Beauly, to which three community councils and more than 300 local people have objected.

Scottish Hydro Electric Transmission Ltd (SHETL) wants to build the two large buildings, 18 metres high, 31 metres wide and 91 metres long, as part of the plan to connect renewable energy developments to the mainland grid.

It is envisaged electricity from the islands would be taken by subsea cable from Lewis to Ullapool. From there, it would be taken underground to the proposed converter station, allowing connection to the existing Beauly substation as part of the upgrade of the line to Denny.

The 350 million plan to upgrade the 137-mile line between Beauly and the Stirlingshire town was the subject of a lengthy public inquiry, the outcome of which is expected later this year.

Objectors say the new application is premature pending the inquiry result and an appeal against an earlier refusal to upgrade the Beauly substation.

The plan will be discussed by councillors next week.