The new proposal would cut disruption for local communities while aiding the delivery of electricity infrastructure for the Highlands.

During consultation events taking place in Beauly and Kiltarlity on 17 September, the new plans were shown to the public, which represents the most recent stage in the project’s development. 

The proposed project would deliver a new bridge constructed roughly ten metres downstream from the current Black Bridge. This would replace previous proposals that required the current structure to be closed while works were being delivered. 

Under the updated plans, the current bridge would stay operational for the majority of the construction period. 
 
The revised proposal comes after an earlier round of public consultation events held late last year, during which local residents highlighted worries around possible road closures, lengthy diversions and the effect construction operations might have on day-to-day journeys. 

That feedback, as well as additional engineering assessments, has been used by SSEN Transmission to influence the development of the project.

Maintaining accessibility across the River Beauly and decreasing disruption emerged as key considerations in the revised design.

Feedback attained during the recent consultation events was generally positive, with attendees welcoming the revised plans and the decreased effect on local travel during construction.

Laurie Kibblewhite, project director at SSEN Transmission, said: “The changes we are now proposing are a direct result of what we heard from local people during our first round of consultation. 

“Residents told us clearly that maintaining access across the River Beauly and minimising disruption during construction were among their biggest priorities.”

Kibblewhite added: “We’ve listened carefully to that feedback and worked hard to develop a solution that eases those concerns while still delivering the proposed infrastructure improvements that are needed. 

SSEN Transmission is inviting the public to review the updated proposals and give feedback, which would form part of the ongoing consultation process.

The consultation period is open until 22 October. Those who want to submit comments can do so by clicking here.