Scotland: Planning permission has been granted for the Bingally 400 / 132 kV substation, an important part of SSEN Transmission’s proposed upgrade of the Beauly to Denny overhead line.
The decision was made this week by Highland Council’s South Planning Applications Committee, following two years of design work and wide-ranging engagement with local communities and stakeholders.
The new outdoor 400 / 132 kV air insulated switchgear substation will be built in the Fasnakyle area, south-east of Cannich and close to Tomich. It will connect to the existing Beauly to Denny line, which is planned to move from 275 kV to 400 kV operation.
The project is part of Perth-based SSEN Transmission’s $34 B (£29 B) investment programme to 2030, aimed at modernising the electricity network across the north of Scotland. The upgrade is intended to support the delivery of homegrown low-carbon energy and help meet clean energy and energy security goals. The need for the development has been independently reviewed and approved by the National Energy System Operator and energy regulator Ofgem.
The construction of the substation is expected to start in summer 2026.
Alongside strengthening the grid, the Bingally development is set to bring local benefits, including new homes, employment and supply chain opportunities, as well as more than $588,000 (£500,000) in direct community funding.
SSEN Transmission has also signed the Highland Social Value Charter, pledging $2.1 B (£1.8 B) in contracts for local firms, over $235 M (£200 M) for roads and bridges, and backing for 500 new homes.
Source: Scottish Construction Now
