On Friday the 9th of June Andrew Bowie MP and Mairi Gougeon MSP met with senior SSEN representatives to discuss their proposals to construct new overhead powerlines and a substation in Aberdeenshire. This has proven to be controversial, with a significant number of constituents raising their concerns with both Andrew and Mairi.
It remains their belief that this energy infrastructure in its current configuration does not meet the needs of the various communities across Aberdeenshire that find themselves impacted along the route. People across the region have felt let down by SSEN rushing through this consultation and feel as though they are not being listened to.
Andrew and Mairi expressed their specific concerns about the existing route and with the substation. The location and scale of proposals are not represented accurately in the consultation document, and this was recognised by SSEN.
The consultation was also raised, the timeline and the way it has been handled. SSEN have committed to updating their consultation guidelines with the feedback that has been received.
SSEN confirmed that they would continue to take comments, from residents after the consultation windows ends, but have stressed the importance residents feeding into the consultation before 23rd June.
SSEN confirmed no final decisions have been made regarding the proposed route and are engaging with the consultation responses as they come in. After the consultation has concluded all responses will be analysed and a report issued.
Concerns over the proposed route for these pylons were raised which risks having a severe impact on both prime agricultural land and some of the North East’s most spectacular scenery. A number of constituents have expressed their worries that the route and infrastructure will have a negative impact on the environment, wildlife and the area’s appearance.
Further to this they also expressed their concerns, shared by many constituents, that there has been a lack of communication from SSEN with affected residents.
If you have not already, Andrew would strongly encourage anyone who has comments on the plans to make them. SSEN have extended their short consultation window up to the 23rd June 2023. You can make comments on their website here.
Photo by American Public Power Association on Unsplash
