Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks (SSEN) is starting the latest phase of its work to upgrade the electricity transmission network between Beauly and Keith on Monday 9 July, refurbishing the overhead lines between Dores Road and Holm Park in Inverness.?
This will result in the temporary closure of a short section of Essich Road in the city during the hours of 09:00 -16:00 Monday to Friday. Works are expected to last approximately four weeks.
The work is part of a £70m project to refurbish the overhead steel tower transmission line which runs between Beauly, Inverness-shire and Keith, Moray, which was constructed in 1957. The upgrade will not only strengthen the electricity network for existing customers across northern Scotland, but also to ensure that it is able to meet the increasing demand for future generation.
SSEN is focused on minimising disruption to the local community and ensuring the ongoing safety of the public as works continue. Due to the location of the transmission tower, a platform is being affixed for staff to work on and, as a further safety measure, an exclusion zone is being created around the base of the tower.
SSEN has therefore been granted permission from the local Highways Department to partially close a 40m section of Essich Road, at the junction of Culduthel Avenue, whilst these works take place. The closure will be signposted, and local diversions will be in place.
Access for emergency vehicles will be maintained at all times, and SSEN has been in contact with the local community ahead of work starting to ensure that they are aware of any customers with medical or social requirements who may need special access, for example those who have visits from carers or medical staff.
Speaking ahead of the work starting, SSEN Project Manager, Michael Cowie said:
"On behalf of everyone involved in the project, I'd like to thank the local community for their patience and understanding as we go about this essential work, which has been timed to coincide with the school holidays to minimise disruption."
"I can appreciate the road closure will cause an element of inconvenience, but I have to stress that this course of action has been taken for the safety of the local community and everyone working on the project."
The £70m project, which will see 10,000km of line refurbished, began in April this year is expected to be completed by November 2020.