The works will begin on Monday 8 June, focusing on preparing the route between Dundonnell and Beauly ahead of main construction later this year. In the coming weeks, works taking place as part of permitted development activity will include access provision, improving local tracks to support cable installation, establishing temporary working compounds, and undertaking specific tree felling.

These works mark an important step in delivering the project, which will support local jobs and investment in the Highlands. The project forms part of SSEN Transmission’s wider programme to upgrade the electricity network to support new renewable energy generation, helping deliver Scotland and the UK’s clean power and energy security ambitions.

Early works will take place on smaller, unclassified roads and existing access routes, with work becoming more noticeable as the project develops. Where temporary traffic management or more localised activity is required, SSEN Transmission will seek to minimise impacts and provide advance notice wherever possible.

Communities, elected representatives and stakeholders will be kept informed as the project progresses, with regular updates on the timing and location of works. As part of this, community liaison groups will be established for both the eastern and western sections of the cable route, providing a forum for direct engagement with the project team.

SSEN Transmission is committed to working with local businesses and communities to maximise the economic benefits of the project, supporting its aim to deliver £1.8bn of contracts for local companies through the Highland Social Value Charter. Early works will be carried out by Highlands-based contractor RJ McLeod, which has expanded its local operations to support the project, working with the local supply chain and creating additional new roles within the business, including apprenticeship roles.

As part of the project, the company is also exploring opportunities to support community initiatives and deliver longer-term travel and transport benefits, such as improving access routes and creating new cycle paths along parts of the cable corridor.

Niall Macleod, project director for SSEN Transmission, said: “These early works, taking place under permitted development, are an important early step in delivering the mainland underground cable section of the Western Isles HVDC Link.

“As we progress this work, we know how important it is to keep those who live and work along the route informed, while keeping disruption to a minimum. With this in mind, we will establish dedicated community liaison groups to provide a forum for meaningful engagement with the project team, helping people stay informed, ask questions, and share feedback.

“We are also pleased that this phase of the project will be delivered by local contractors, supporting jobs and economic activity in line with our commitment as the first organisation to sign the Highland Social Value Charter.

“We will continue to work closely with communities, The Highland Council and other stakeholders, providing regular updates as the programme develops.”