Public inquiry called to look into pylon project
A public inquiry looks set to be launched into SSEN’s controversial Kintore to Tealing pylon project after Angus councillors rejected the scheme.
In November, elected members unanimously opposed the 400kV overhead line project, part of SSEN’s Transmission’s Pathway to 2030 investment of more than £20 billion.
The scheme involves new pylons, averaging 57 metres in height, being erected along more than 60 miles of Aberdeenshire and Angus countryside.
However, the scheme was branded “an act of vandalism on a colossal scale”.
Angus councillors went against the advice of their own head of planning to lodge a formal objection with the Scottish Government’s energy consents unit.
Under the terms of the Electricity Act, an objection by a statutory body such as a council automatically triggers a public inquiry – but only if it cannot be resolved.
Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen City councils raised no objections, but an inquiry into the Angus area objection now looks set to go ahead, and two reporters have been appointed by the Scottish Government’s Planning and Environmental Appeals Division (DPEA).
It said: “The Scottish Ministers have directed the inquiry be held into the objecting authority’s area being Angus Council. The reporters will look at the documents and submissions and will consider what further procedures are necessary in order to consider this case. Documents will be published shortly. Further details will be forthcoming in due course.”
In a previous statement following the Angus Council decision, SSEN expressed disappointment with the councli’s decision. The company had hoped to see the application granted by the autumn.
It said: “The project has been developed in line with all relevant policies and legislation, balancing key community and environmental considerations with technical and economic factors. The Kintore-Tealing project represents a critical step towards securing clean, affordable power for families across the country.
“Beyond energy, this project supports Scottish jobs and businesses, drives economic growth, and leaves a lasting legacy for communities through new housing and dedicated funding.”