Achalone residents voice substation concerns after dealing with Spittal issues. Banniskirk project size worries locals.
The Spittal substation is already near Achalone homes. The proposed Banniskirk project is much larger, and SSEN Transmission wants Highland Council approval for their new project, which includes a substation and converter station.
Banniskirk Hub would link to two other lines: the Spittal substation and the Beauly line. At a community council meeting, Mrs. Mackenzie noted that Achalone residents have “done their bit” and mentioned the existing Spittal substation.
She described dealing with flooding, many workers, and litter. Blasting happened without warning, and she felt they lacked information regarding the project.
She talked about noise, constant lights, and the loss of dark skies. The substation gleams like a mirror, and trees that once hid it are now gone. This existing substation is smaller than the new planned substation which might get even bigger.
Mrs. Mackenzie calls the Banniskirk plan “scary.” Shift workers in her home face noise issues, and this new plan is under long construction.
Martin Sinclair found new data presented by Edith Budge and Kathrin Haltiner “mind-blowing.” Mr. Sinclair questioned the planning approval, feeling its size exceeds the actual need.
Dave Busby also spoke, stating that the ultimate goal is unknown. Banniskirk is a huge substation, and he believes it has a hidden purpose, which the planners haven’t clearly explained, leaving locals without the full picture to comment properly.