Residents fear pylons will ruin landscapes. Campaigners say SSEN is ignoring local concerns about the controversial project.
SSEN wants to build a 400kV line from Spittal to Beauly; they changed the pylon path near Dunbeath a bit to lessen the impact on the area. SSEN shared these plans in a report showing the final line routes for approval.
The project includes 167km of new pylons, as well as three new substations, including the Banniskirk Hub. A resident said this will change their way of life, as the pylons will average 57 meters tall, and some will reach 65 meters.
The “Say No to Pylons” group feels despair, claiming the plans devastate communities. The group is disappointed with SSEN’s changes, saying they don’t fix the core problem and the pylons still harm homes and the area.
The group claims SSEN ignores public input, putting profits before people’s concerns. SSEN uses software to pick routes, but locals found the software flawed, because it missed monuments and peatlands. Peatlands are important for carbon capture.
The group says SSEN fails to consider feelings and doesn’t see the human impact. Moving pylons a little doesn’t solve issues because homes become unlivable because of them. The group has asked for proof the pylons are actually needed.
SSEN promised jobs, but the group doubts it, believing pylons hurt property values. Nobody will buy homes near them, they say; the group argues the consultations are just for show and they feel ignored by those in power. Ultimately, the group wants real change.
SSEN says they listened to feedback and aim to protect the environment, following rules to protect areas. Changes were made to the project route, and the final report shows these changes based on feedback.
SSEN plans to show final plans at events, because the line is key for energy security and will bring jobs locally. SSEN created a 3D site with videos of the route. The transmission line supports energy and clean power goals.