Highland powerline upgrade faces council challenge

SSEN Transmission said the existing line was nearing the end of its operational life

Highland Council is to lodge an objection to plans for a new electricity line running from Fort Augustus to Skye.

Power company SSEN Transmission wants to upgrade the line to improve reliability and connect new wind farms.

But concerns have been raised with Highland Council about the impact the electricity towers would have on landscapes.

SSEN Transmission said it was disappointed by the council's decision.

Councillors voted at a meeting on Wednesday to raise an objection.

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The final decision on whether the development goes ahead will be made by the Scottish government.

The existing power line was constructed in three sections between 1956 and 1989.

SSEN Transmission plans to upgrade a total of 99 miles (160km) of line between Skye and Fort Augustus on the shores of Loch Ness.

A spokesman said the existing line was reaching the end of its operational life and two major faults earlier this year resulted in a loss of power for more than 20,000 customers.

He said the company was looking forward to a timely decision from the Scottish government.

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