Argyll and Kintyre 275Kv Strategy Consultation Booklet July 2021

Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation Booklet July 2021

Share your views with us:

We are launching a virtual consultation exhibition to gain views and feedback on our proposals for our Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy. This strategy includes our plans for the previously consulted upon Creag Dhubh - Dalmally 275kV Connection project, alongside two new projects; Creag Dhubh – Inveraray 275kV Overhead Line and Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Substations.

Information on our proposals is available within this consultation booklet, and we also invite you to view our virtual consultation portal where we will hold live IM chat sessions at the following dates and times:

• Wednesday 14th July - 10am-1pm & 5-7pm • Thursday 15th July - 10am-1pm & 5-7pm • Thursday 29th July - 10am-1pm & 5-7pm

For more information, please visit: www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/ argyll-and-kintyre-275kv-strategy/ 02 Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation 03

Who We Are

We are Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks, operating under licence as Scottish Hydro Electric Transmission plc (SSEN Transmission) for the transmission of electricity in the North of Scotland. What is the difference between Transmission and Distribution?

Electricity Transmission is the transportation of electricity from generating plants to where it is required at centres of demand. The Electricity Transmission network, or grid, transports electricity at very high voltages through overhead lines (OHL), underground cables (UCG) and subsea cables. Our transmission network connects large scale generation, primarily renewables, to central and southern Scotland and the rest of Great Britain. It also helps secure supply by providing reliable connection to the wider network of generation plans.

The Electricity Distribution network is connected into the Transmission network but the voltage is lowered by transformers at electricity substations, and the power is then distributed to homes and businesses through overhead lines or underground cables.

Overview of Transmission Projects

In total we maintain about 5,000km of overhead lines and underground cables – easily enough to stretch across the Atlantic from John O’Groats all the way to Boston in the USA.

Our network crosses some of the UK’s most challenging terrain – including circuits that are buried under the seabed, are located over 750m above sea level and up to 250km long.

The landscape and environment that contribute to the challenges we face also give the area a rich resource for renewable energy generation. There is a high demand to connect from new wind, hydro and marine generators which rely on Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks to provide a physical link between the new sources of power and electricity users. Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks is delivering a major programme of investment to ensure that the network is ready to meet the needs of our customers in the future. Our responsibilities

We have a licence for the transmission of electricity in the north of Scotland and we are closely regulated by the energy regulator the Office of Gas and Electricity Markets (Ofgem).

Our licence stipulates that we must develop and maintain an efficient, co-ordinated and economical system of electricity transmission.

www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/argyll-and-kintyre-275kv-strategy/ www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/argyll-and-kintyre-275kv-strategy/ 04 Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation 05

The Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy

The original transmission network in Argyll and Bute was constructed over 60 years ago and designed to transmit electricity to consumers in rural areas of low-density population.

As the UK strives for Net Zero (achieving a balance between the There is therefore a requirement for us to increase our network In the interest of greenhouse gases put into the atmosphere and those taken out), capability in Argyll and Kintyre, beyond that already under current transparency, we’re SSEN Transmission has seen a significant increase in generator construction and public development, to enable the connection connection applications in Argyll and Kintyre in the last 18 of further renewable generation and to export to the wider GB Isle of presenting this package months, predominantly in renewable generation. network. We have called this group of works designed to deliver Mull 1 of works as a whole to our the required increase in network capacity our ‘Argyll and Kintyre Taynuilt stakeholders across the In terms of this renewable generation (i.e. windfarms), there are 275kV Strategy’. Glen Lochy region, to ensure all local infrastructure requirements needed to connect generators to our Transmission network. More information on the windfarms Our Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy consists of 3 projects, one community members are requiring connection and upcoming consultation is listed on of which has previously been consulted on publicly since 2016, Creag Dubh aware of the full extent Page 34. and another two which are in early development and the initial of our proposals and consultation stage. They are as follows: 2 invited to comment on the development of each. Creag Dhubh - Dalmally Creag Dhubh - Inveraray 1 2 275kV Connection 275kV Overhead Line 3 An-Suidhe We recognise that as the (pages 06 - 16) (pages 17-23) proposed works span Crarae across the region, not all Stakeholders in Dalmally will already be This is a new project which would involve between 8-12 km of new familiar with this project which we have 275kV overhead line constructed between the proposed new substation of the three projects will consulted on and subsequently adapted our at Creag Dhubh, and a connection point on the Inveraray to Crossaig Craig Murrall be of direct interest to all plans in response to stakeholder feedback. overhead line. stakeholders and members of the public. The project involves establishing a new It will initially be operated at 132kV, but will be capable of 275kV operation, substation at Creag Dhubh and new switching once associated transmission network connected substations to the south station at Glen Lochy, connected by have been upgraded to 275kV capability. During this consultation approximately 13km of new overhead line. we therefore invite The existing 132kV overhead line between Inveraray and the proposed stakeholders to comment In this consultation, we are seeking your new Creag Dhubh substation will be removed. We are inviting views as to views on our Preferred Alignment for the our Preferred Route Option, within which the replacement overhead line on as many or as little overhead line. will be located. of the projects listed as Isle of Bute desired and have provided In addition, to minimise separate events, we are also using this virtual consultation as the separate feedback forms Key for ease. first formal public consultation for the Creag Argyll and Kintyre Dhubh substation Pre-Application Notice 3 Creag Dhubh - (PAN) event. The consultation on Creag 275kV Substations Crossaig Dalmally 275kV Connection Dhubh is therefore a statutory consultation Creag Dhubh - (pages 24-33) Inveraray 275kV Overhead Line event (within the Town and Country Argyll and Kintyre - Planning (Scotland) Act regulations) seeking To complete the Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy, all of the connected 275kV Substations views on the proposed substation and substations require upgrade to 275kV capability. As a result we are Isle of Inveraray - Crossaig Upgrade associated works. progressing with a new project which would involve construction and Arran to 275kV (under construction) operation of four new 275kV electricity substations, south of Inveraray. Existing 275kV OHL A separate Creag Dhubh feedback form Existing 132kV OHL is available on Page 37 and we welcome We are inviting views regarding preferred Site Options identified for each Proposed 275kV OHL comments as part of this formal of these substations. engagement process. Substation

To find out more about the Strategy as a whole, and sign up for updates, please visit: www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/argyll-and-kintyre-275kv-strategy/

www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/argyll-and-kintyre-275kv-strategy/ www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/argyll-and-kintyre-275kv-strategy/ 06 Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation 07

Creag Dhubh – Dalmally 275kV Connection

08 09 210 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 220 Legend

!( Preferred Tower Locations

1. About the project Preferred Alignment 28 28 Study Area

The overall aim of the project is to reinforce the existing transmission network connections in the Argyll region, to enable renewable Preferred Switching Station, Site energy projects to connect to the GB transmission network and to ensure security of supply. 6, 2020 Consultation Proposed Creag Dhubh Substation 27 27 Preferred Route, Option 3, 2020 Project elements Consultation

T40 !( !( T39 !( !( !( !( T38 !( !( !( A new 275/132kV substation adjacent to the 41A 42A 26 T37 !( 43A 44A 45A 46A 47A 26 Previous consultation T36 !( existing Inveraray to Taynuilt 132kV overhead line T35 !( T34 !( T33 !( (Creag Dhubh Substation) !( We have been consulting on this project since March 2016. T32 !( T31 In recognition of feedback regarding the previous preferred !( 25 T30 25 alignment to Dalmally substation, we committed to explore !( A new 275kV overhead line between the proposed T29 alternative options to avoid crossing the Strath of Orchy. T28 !( T27 !( T26 !( These were presented in September 2020, and following Creag Dhubh substation and a switching station in T25 !( !( T24 consideration of feedback received, we confirmed our Glen Lochy !( T23 Preferred Option in the Report on Consultation, published 24 !( 24 T22 !( in November 2020. The Preferred Option is an alternative T21 !( A new Glen Lochy switching station, to connect T20 overhead line connection location east of Dalmally and !( T19 the new 275kV overhead line with the existing !( new switching station, avoiding the need to connect to the T18 !( Scottish Power 275kV overhead line between 23 T17 23 existing Dalmally substation. !( Dalmally and Inverarnan Substation T16 !( The Preferred Option addresses concerns about the visual T15 !( T14 and cumulative impacts of connecting to the existing !( T13 network infrastructure in the Strath of Orchy and avoids Key dates 22 !( 22 environmental challenges concerning flooding and T12 • Planning application submissions Autumn 2021 !( T11 pollution risk, associated with the undergrounding option. !( • Anticipated Construction Start Date Spring 2023 T10 !( • Project Completion Spring 2025 T9 T8 !( !( 21 T7 21 T6 !( !( T5 !( T4 This consultation !( T3 *Creag Dhubh Substation Proposal 720 !( 720 of Application Notice (PAN) T2 We are seeking your views on: !( T1 Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of HMSO. !( Crown copyright and database right 2021 all rights reserved. • The proposed Creag Dhubh substation (note this element As part of the consultation event we are formally Ordnance Survey Licence number EL273236. Project No: LT000029 08 is subject to 09the formal PAN210 process as prescribed11 for major12 consulting13 on Creag14 Dhubh Substation.15 This element16 17 18 19 220 19 19 Project: 1700003673 planning applications). This08 event forms09 the main 210 11 of the 12consultation 13is a statutory 14requirement 15of the 16 17 18 19 220 Legend Title: pre-application consultations process for this future Legend pre-application consultation event for this site and is subject to (! Preferred Tower Locations Creag Dhubh to Dalmally 275kV Connection (! statutory procedures.* planning application. Preferred Tower Locations Figure 1.2: LT29 Preferred Alignment (GL5)

N Scale @ A3: 1:40,000 . Preferred Alignment m

0 km Preferred Alignment 282 20 28 18 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 0 20¯ Drawn by: BM Date: 15/06/2021 0 0.25 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5

28 8 28

• The minor location changes to the Proposed Glen Lochy This PAN event has been co-joined with the wider 1 7 Study Area 208000m.E Legend09 210 11 12 Study Area13 14 15 16 17 18 19 220 Switching Station site. consultation to set the proposals within the wider Key Drawing: R170_3673_Fig1.2_LT29PreferredAlignment_B.mxd PreferredPreferred Switching Switching Station, Station, Site 6, Site 6, project context and to minimise the number of separate (! Preferred Tower Locations 20202020 Consultation Consultation • Our proposed overhead line route alignment between Tower consultation events we are hosting. Separate information Proposed Creag Dhubh Substation boards (Pages 15-16), and a separate feedback form Preferred Alignment Proposed Creag Dhubh Substation 28 28 (on the preferred 2018 alignment) and the Proposed Glen 28 27 27 Preferred Route, Option 3, 27 Lochy switching station. (Page 37) for the Creag Dhubh Substation are provided Study Area 27 2020Preferred Consultation Route, Option 3, and we encourage feedback and comments to inform the 2020 Consultation Preferred Switching Station, Site 6, design and final proposals. A formal planning application 2020 Consultation is due to be submitted to Argyll & Bute Council in Autumn T40 (! (! (! T39 (! (! Proposed(! (! Creag Dhubh Substation 2021 for Creag Dhubh substation. T40T38 (! (! 26 (! 41A 42A 44A 26 T39T37 (! (! (! (! 45A 46A 47A 27 T36 (! 27 (! (! Preferred(! (! Route, Option 3, T38 (! (! T35 41A 42A 26 T34T37 (! (! 44A 45A 202046A Consultation47A 26 T33T36(! (! T35 (! (! T34 T32(! T33 (! (! (! T31 (! 25 T40T32 25 (! (! (! (! T30 T39 (! (! (! (! ! T38 (! ( (! 26 (! T31 41A 42AT29 44A 26 T37 (! T28 (! 45A 46A 47A 25 www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/argyll-and-kintyre-275kv-strategy/ T36 (! T27 (! 25 www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/argyll-and-kintyre-275kv-strategy/ ! T26 (! T35 ( T25T30(! T34 (! (! (! T33 (! T24 (! (!T29 T28T23 (! 24 T32 T27 (! 24 (! T26 (! T25 (! T22 (! (! T31 T24 T21 (! (! (! 25 T20 25 T30 T23 (! 24 (! (! T19 24 (! T29 T22 T18 T28 (! (! (! 23 T27 (! T21 T17 23 T26 (! (! (! T25 (! T20 (! (! T16 T24 (! (! T19 (! T15 T23 (! (! T18 24 (! T14 24 23 T17 (! 23 T22 (! (! T13 22 T21 (! 22 (! T16 T20 (! T12 (! (! T19 T15 T11 (! (! (! T18 T14 T10 ! (! ( (! T9 23 T17 (! 23 (! T8 T13 (! 22 21 (! T7 2221 T16 T6 (! (! T12 (! (! T15 T5 (! T11 (! (! T14 T4 (! T10 (! (! T9 T13 (! T3 22 (! 720 T8 (! 22 720 (! 21 T12 T7 T2 21 (! (! (! T6 Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of HMSO. T11 (! T1 (! (! Crown copyright and database right 2021 all rights reserved. T5 Ordnance Survey Licence number EL273236. T10 (! (! T9 Project No: LT000029 ! T4 T8 ( (! 19 19 Project: 1700003673 (! 21 T7 21 (! T3 Title: T6 720 (! 720 (! Creag Dhubh to Dalmally 275kV Connection T2 T5 (! Figure 1.2: LT29 Preferred Alignment (GL5) (! Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of HMSO.

T1 N Scale @ A3: 1:40,000 Crown copyright and database right 2021 all rights reserved. T4 (! km 18 (! 000m. ¯ Drawn by:OrdnanceBM Survey Licence numberDate: EL273236. 03/06/2021 0 0.25 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 18 7 T3 208000m.E 09 210 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 220 Drawing: R170_3673_Fig1.2_LT29PreferredAlignment_A.mxd 720 (! 720 Project No: LT000029 T2 19 19 Project: 1700003673 (! T1 Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf ofTitle: HMSO. (! Crown copyright and database right 2021 all rights reserved. Ordnance Survey Licence number EL273236. Creag Dhubh to Dalmally 275kV Connection

Project No: LT000029 Figure 1.2: LT29 Preferred Alignment (GL5)

19 N Scale @ A3: 1:40,000 19 Project: 1700003673 km 18 000m. ¯ Drawn by: BM Date: 03/06/2021 0 0.25 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 Title: 18 7 208000m.E 09 210 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18Creag Dhubh to Dalmally19 275kV Connection220 Drawing: R170_3673_Fig1.2_LT29PreferredAlignment_A.mxd

Figure 1.2: LT29 Preferred Alignment (GL5)

N Scale @ A3: 1:40,000 km 18 000m. ¯ Drawn by: BM Date: 03/06/2021 0 0.25 0.5 1 1.5 2 2.5 18 7 208000m.E 09 210 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 220 Drawing: R170_3673_Fig1.2_LT29PreferredAlignment_A.mxd 08 Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation 09

Creag Dhubh – Dalmally 275kV Connection

2. Project history 3. Route Alignment Selection Process

Following consultation in September 2020 and consideration of feedback received, we confirmed our preferred option as an March 2016 Early 2020 September 2020 alternative overhead line connection location between Tower 28 (on the preferred 2018 alignment) and new Glen Lochy Switching Station, avoiding the need to connect to the existing Dalmally substation. Project Introduction Glen Lochy Switching Station Virtual Consultation Consultation Presented in the consultation materials, a 1km wide Preferred Route (Option B1) was highlighted to accommodate this alternative An alternative connection Three options presented connection. Considering consultation responses, this assessment remains unchanged and Option B1 has been considered in further The ‘North Argyll’ project is location, avoiding the Strath of for consultation: detail. Since then, we have been working to identify an optimal alignment within this route which is technically feasible, economically introduced to local stakeholders. Orchy is identified to the east 1. an overhead line from viable and causes the least disturbance to the environment; and to those who live, work, visit or use the area for recreation. of Dalmally; which would link Creag Dhubh to the existing to the existing overhead line Dalmally substation between Dalmally and (preferred solution from 2018), October 2016 Inverarnan substation. 2. an underground cable connection to the existing Baseline Alignment Baseline Alignment Deviations The next step in the process was to identify a Baseline Once the engineering Baseline Alignment was identified, Route Options Consultation Dalmally substation; and 3. an alternative overhead Alignment within the Preferred Route, which was a workshop took place between SSEN Transmission and A preferred route for the new line connection location produced by our engineering design contractors our environmental consultant. The workshop considered overhead line is shared. Community east of Dalmally and new through desktop surveys, Digital Terrain Model (DTM) deviations to the Baseline Alignment that would offer members cited concerns regarding switching station (Glen Lochy). data and on-site walkover surveys to investigate key localised improvements to sensitive receptors. This included proximity to residential properties, Throughout 2019 features such as buildings, public footpaths, water cultural heritage receptors (e.g. Duncan Ban Monument), visual impact and proximity to the bodies and existing infrastructure. landscape and visual receptors, ornithological receptors existing Scottish Power transmission Cable Investigations and Results (e.g. black grouse) and designated habitats, such as line. There were requests that the Ancient Woodland and blanket bog. The deviations are line be undergrounded in Dalmally In recognition of feedback, November 2020 assessed alongside the Baseline Alignment to arrive at a due to these concerns. we announce plans to further Preferred Alignment. explore undergrounding across Report on Consultation the Strath of Orchy. Two potentially feasible options Following public consultation, we Five deviations (GL1-GL5) were identified for further assessment, and reviewed in terms of cost, engineering and environment. are identified, however, due publish our Report on Consultation, These deviations can be viewed in the figure below. Throughout 2017 to high risk of environmental confirming the preferred option as pollution and engineering Option 3: Glen Lochy Overhead Initial Cable Investigations challenges, a decision is made Line and Switching Station. Since 1 3 to investigate alternative then, site work has been ongoing Deviation GL1 was proposed to reduce the impact on During review of all consultation connection options which would to determine alignments for the Deviation GL3 was proposed to reduce potential visual Class 2 peatland habitat, including areas of blanket bog feedback received to date, a aim to respond to landscape and overhead line, and locations for the and setting impacts, would also result in a smaller area as well as reducing potential setting impacts on the decision was made to carry visual concerns. substation and switching station. of woodland fragmentation and would be a lower cost out investigation into potential Scheduled Monument. It also moves north from the option compared to the Baseline Alignment. underground cabling routes Baseline Alignment into the plantation woodland, which in Dalmally. offers some screening.

March 2018 Summer 2021 2 4

January 2018 Preferred Alignment Deviation GL2 was proposed to reduce potential setting Deviation GL4 was proposed to straighten up the Consultation Virtual Consultation impacts on the Scheduled Monument as well as reducing Baseline Alignment and bring it closer to the edge of the Cabling Update Meeting any visual impacts from residential property. GL2 is also woodland, reducing the loss of commercial woodland Glenorchy and Innishail CC Preferred alignment for the Updates provided on Creag set further back than the Baseline Alignment, which and fragmentation. It would also be a lower cost option overhead line between proposed Dhubh Substation and Glen Lochy provides further woodland screening. compared to the Baseline Alignment. Project team attend a local Creag Dhubh Substation site and Switching Station. Views sought community council meeting to existing Dalmally Switching Station. on overhead line alignment present the results of the Cable Majority of feedback received is in from Tower 28 (on the preferred 5 Feasibility Study. Three potential objection to the preferred route 2018 alignment) to Glen Lochy options were identified, each and alignment, citing landscape Switching Station and Proposal Deviation GL5 was proposed to reduce the loss of Ancient Woodland, reduce the loss of blanket bog and slightly reduce constrained by the location, with and visual concerns. of Application Notice (PAN) no clear option preference. process commences for Creag impacts on heritage features. GL5 also provides a slight improvement to visual receptors to local properties. Dhubh Substation.

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Creag Dhubh – Dalmally 275kV Connection

Red Amber Green (RAG) Charts Alignment options - Engineering

To demonstrate the full extent of analysis undertaken on Engineering Alignment options alignment options identified, we created Red Amber Green Infrastructure Baseline GL1 GL2 GL3 GL4 GL5 (RAG) table’s which illustrate the level of associated risk crossings to each consideration. Major Crossings A high risk is shown as red, a medium risk is shown as amber and Road Crossings a low risk is shown as green. Ground Condition Terrain For further information on the alignment options analysis, please refer to the Consultation Document available from the project Peat webpage or on request. Construction and Maintenance Angle Towers Alignment options - Environmental Proximity Clearance Distance Environmental Alignment options

Natural Heritage Baseline GL1 GL2 GL3 GL4 GL5 Designations Alignment options - Cost

Ornithology From a cost perspective the differences were marginal Protected Species resulting in all options receiving a green rating. Habitats Hydrology / Geology Cultural Heritage Designations Non-designated Assets People Proximity to Dwellings Landscape and Visual Designations Character Visual Land Use Key Agriculture Forestry Baseline Tower Locations GL3 Duncan Ban Monument Recreation Baseline Alignment GL4 Tom a’Chaisteil Deviation Option GL4 (preferred) Dychlie Deserted Croft Planning GL1 Preferred Switching Station, Policy Site 6, 2020 Consultation Auchtermally GL2 Preferred Route, Option 3, Proposals 2020 Consultation

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Creag Dhubh – Dalmally 275kV Connection

14 15 16 17 18 19 Legend 4. Preferred Route Alignment !( Baseline Tower Locations 28 28 Baseline Alignment

Deviation Option To select a Preferred Alignment, a comparative appraisal of the environmental, engineering, and cost sensitivities and risks was GL5 undertaken for each option in accordance with the methodology set out in SSEN Transmission guidance. Details of the appraisal Preferred Switching Station, Site 6, can be viewed in full detail within the Consultation Report. 2020 Consultation Preferred Route, Option 3, 2020 Consultation

Through consideration of all sensitivities and risks identified, the preferred route alignment selected is deviation alignment GL5. 27 27

Environment: On balance, GL5 would be the preference However, the RAG assessment included in the Consultation as it would greatly reduce the loss of Ancient Woodland in Document concludes that the lower number of angle towers comparison to the Baseline Alignment, has the lowest impact on for the Baseline Alignment and GL5 is not of any significance. blanket bog habitat, as well as providing a slight improvement to Regarding avoiding peated areas, GL1 could have the same risk as T41 T42 T43 !( !( !( T44 T45 T46 T40 !( !( !( T47 visual receptors. the other alignment options, as it runs through existing forestry !( !( T39 !( with unknown ground conditions, but anticipated to be planted T38 26 !( 26 The preferred alignment is closer to the black grouse lek over some areas of peat. Accordingly, there is no clear preference T37 !( T36 compared with GL1; however mitigation could be put in place to between all options. !( T35 reduce disturbance to the black grouse lek during construction. !( T34 !( T33 Cost: GL3 and GL4 have the lowest cost for all criteria, !( Engineering: In terms of engineering, the number of angle albeit marginal. T32 towers and location of peat are the main criteria that differentiate !( each alignment. T31 !(

25 25

T30 !(

T29 About the Overhead Line !( T28 !( T27 !( Approx 13km Long

Project No: LT000029 50 metres average Project: 1700003673 tower height* Title: Creag Dhubh to Dalmally 275kV Connection Figure 3.5:

N LT29 Baseline Alignment with Deviation Option GL5 . m

0 Scale @ A3: 1:20,000

0 23 0

3 km 2 Drawn by: 7 ¯ CF Date: 16/04/2021 47 towers 0 0.125 0.25 Key0.5 0.75 1 1.25 214000m.E 15 16 17 18 19 Drawing: 1700003673_Fig3_5_AlignmentGL5_D Baseline Tower Locations Deviation Option Baseline Alignment GL5 (preferred) Span length between (preferred) Preferred Switching Station, 175-350 metres 2020 Consultation Preferred Route, Option 3, Consultation

*Height likely to vary between 40 and 55 metres

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Creag Dhubh – Dalmally 275kV Connection

5. Glen Lochy Switching Station 6. Creag Dhubh Substation

The Creag Dhubh substation is required for the connection Following the site selection process two sites were initially of the proposed overhead line to the existing network. identified for further survey and presented during consultation What is a switching station? Preferred location The substation will connect onto the existing 132kV network events in October 2016. However site investigations identified between Inveraray and Taynuilt and will also connect to the significant volumes of environmentally sensitive and technically In September 2020, we shared potential locations for the A switching station essentially creates a central node on proposed Glen Lochy Switching Station via a new overhead challenging peatland, meaning further site selection within the Glen Lochy Switching Station site, from around 2km east the network where multiple lines of the same voltage can line, to allow connection to the wider electricity network. search area would be required to arrive at the preferred site. of Dalmally. connect. Switches at this location allow each line in and The selection of the preferred site was undertaken as a out to be controlled without affecting the other lines. We’ve been consulting on the Creag Dhubh substation location combination of the environment, engineering and cost Six different sites were initially identified, (although Site In this instance, the Glen Lochy switching station is required since 2016, where the preferred substation search area was assessment scoring and the preferred option selected was taken 5 was discounted due to technical and environmental to connect the proposed overhead line from Creag Dhubh provided during Consultation Events held in March of that year. forward for consultation and detailed design in March 2018. Substation to Scottish Power Energy Networks (SPEN’s) constraints). Through analysis of the environmental existing 275kV overhead line and subsequently to the and engineering constraints Site 6 was identified as the UK electricity network. Consultation with SPEN has been preferred option. continuing since the initial Consultation in September Design Updates 2020, to determine the most appropriate design for the Since the consultation events in 2018, the preferred site location has undergone further assessment resulting in minor changes taking connection to the existing overhead line from Dalmally to 09 into consideration key constraints. As such, the site has moved approximately 30m to the Lnorth:egend 09 Inverarnan, owned by SPEN. Legend !( Baseline Tower Locations !( Baseline Tower Locations Baseline Alignment Baseline Alignment Current Proposed Creag Dhubh Next Steps Current Proposed Creag Dhubh Substation (2021) Substation (2021) 09 Previously Proposed Creag Dhubh Legend Substation (2018) The new Site 6 location will be taken forward to Key !( Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) screening in Baseline Tower Locations Baseline Alignment T2 Summer 2021, parallel to this consultation process. Current Proposed Creag Dhubh !( !(T2 Design updates We will then commence formal consultation and submit Substation (2021) Previously Proposed Creag Dhubh 1 2 3 an4 application5 for6 consent7 under 8 the Town9 and Country10 11 12 13 14 Substatio15n (2018) 16 A1 Following the consultation process in 2020,A where A Planning (Scotland) Act 1997. DOCUMENT REFERENCE: Site 6 remained the Preferred Site, the location of Site NOTES:- 1. REPRODUCED FROM ORDNANCE SURVEY MAPS NN12NE & NN22NW BY T2 PERMISSION OF ORDNANCE SURVEY ON BEHALF OF HER MAJESTY'S 6 has been shifted by approximately 30m to the north !( STATIONARY OFFICE. © CROWN COPYRIGHT ORDNANCE SURVEY. The preferred location for the Glen Lochy Switching REFERENCE NUMBER 100019808 B B and rotated by approximately 10 degrees. This is to Station will be reviewed considering comments received accommodate the electrical equipment and provide during this consultation process, as well as further E: 208627 the optimal orientation to align the towers with the surveys and site configuration design work. N: 719509 C C existing SPEN overhead line. The change in orientation T1 !( !(T1 also reduces the risk of disturbance to local wildlife, by moving it further from habitats. D D E: 208793 N: 719422 Technology options are being developed that will refine the area and size of the switching station with E E key considerations including environmental impact !(T1 E: 208538 during both construction and operation. However at N: 719340 present, the current footprint stands at roughly 280m F F by 165m plus an extra area of roughly 60m by 30m for E: 208698 the control building. This gives a switching station size N: 719256

Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of HMSO. of 4.8 hectares. Additional land take will be required for Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of HMSO. G G Crown copyright and database right 2021 all rights reserved. Ordnance Survey Licence number EL273236. Crown copyright and database right 2021 all rights reserved. Ordnance Survey Licence number EL273236. cut and fill to tie the platform into the existing ground Project No: LT000029 Project No: LT000029 Project: 1700003673 levels, the overhead line towers, an access track to enter Project: 1700003673 Title: Creag Dhubh to Dalmally 275kV Connection Title: Creag Dhubh to Dalmally 275kV Connection the site and any landscaping. Some land takeH will also be H Figure 5.1: LT29 Proposed Creag Dhubh Substation Layout Comparison Plate 1: required during construction for laydown, welfare and Scale @ A3: 1:3,000 LT29 Proposed Creag Dhubh Substation Scale @ A3: 1:3,000 km ¯ km Drawn by: BM Date: 04/06/2021 0 0.01750.035 0.07 0.105 0.14 0.175 ¯ Drawn by: BM Date: 04/06/2021 processing of material during earthworks. 0 0.01750.035 0.07 0.105 0.14 0.175 209000m.E Drawing: R170_3673_Fig5.1_LT29CreagDhubhSubstationLayoutComparison_B 209000m.E Drawing: R170_3673_Plate1_LT29CreagDhubhSubstation_B

J J

Project No: LT000029 Project: 1700003673 DRAFT Title: Creag Dhubh to Dalmally 275kV Connection

Figure 5.1: SSE Inveralmond House, 200 Dunkeld Road Perth, PH1 3AQ, UK www.sse.com L LT29 Proposed Creag DProjecthu:bh Substation Layout CompaL rison Scale @ A3: 1:3,000 GLEN LOCHY SWITCHING STATION

km Project Number: LT000029 Location: ¯ Drawn by: BM Title: Date: 04/06/2021 0 0.01750.035 0.07 0.105 0.14 0.175 SWITCHING STATION SITE LOCATION PLAN 209000m.E Drawing: R170_3673_Fig5.1_LT29CreagDhubhSubstationLayoutComparison_B Drawing Status: For Information Drawn: SP

Scale: 1:5000 @ A1 Checked: SCALE AT 1:5000 www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/argyll-and-kintyre-275kv-strategy/ Date: 06.04.2021 Approved: www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/argyll-and-kintyre-275kv-strategy/ M 0m 125m 250m 375m 500m Drawing Number: Sheet No: Revision No: M

File Name: Glen Lochy Substation Platform Outline.dxf - 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 16 Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation 17

Creag Dhubh – Dalmally 275kV Connection Creag Dhubh - Inveraray 275kV Overhead Line Substation Details

• To allow for a reduced substation surface area, gas insulated • Sufficient space has been allowed within the current design 1. About the project Project Timeline switchgear (GIS) has been chosen rather than air insulated to allow the phased connection of the new 275kV overhead switchgear (AIS). line between Creag Dhubh and Inveraray with the aim of minimising impact to customers. Project Need • One side of the substation will consist of a 275kV double SSEN Transmission has seen a significant increase in generator July 2021 busbar GIS, housed in the larger of the two main buildings and • Both sets of GIS will have two bays to connect to the centrally connection applications in Argyll and Kintyre, with over 600MW will include connection of two 275kV overhead line bays. located supergrid transformers which sit between the two total generation having applied for a connection to the network The other side will consist of 132kV double busbar GIS, housed buildings. The 275/132kV supergrid transformers (SGT) will be in the region in the last 18 months. ∞ Preferred Route Public Consultation in the smaller of the two main buildings and will include four rated at 480 MVA. 132kV overhead line bays and a possible grid transformer bay. This increase in new renewable generation, led predominantly by onshore wind, has triggered the requirement for further reinforcement of the transmission network in the region beyond At present, the current footprint stands at roughly 190m by 200m. This gives a substation size of 3.8 hectares. Additional land take that already under construction which collectively make up our Autumn 2021 will be required for cut and fill to tie the platform into the existing ground levels, the adjacent overhead line towers, an access track to Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy. enter the site and any landscaping. Some land take will also be required during construction for laydown, welfare and processing of material during earthworks. Part of this strategy involves the newly proposed Creag Dhubh ∞ Preferred Alignment Public Consultation - Inveraray 275kV Overhead Line project, which would see between 8-12 km of new 275kV overhead line constructed between the proposed new substation at Creag Dhubh, and a connection point on to the Inveraray to Crossaig overhead line. It will initially be operated at 132kV, but will be capable of 275kV operation, once the associated transmission network connected Summer 2022 substations to the south have been upgraded to 275kV capability.

The existing 132kV overhead line between Inveraray and ∞ Development Consents Applications the proposed new Creag Dhubh substation will be removed following installation of the replacement line.

During the construction of the replacement overhead line, we will need to maintain the local electricity supply, and therefore are required to build new towers at alternative locations to the Winter 2023 existing towers.

∞ Anticipated Construction Start

Consultation on the Preferred Route Visualisation of the proposed Creag Dhubh substation To facilitate the overhead line connection between Creag Dhubh substation and Inveraray we have Spring 2025 Planning Application Next Steps identified six potential Route Options for the This site is now subject to formal pre-application consultation We encourage you to make comment and provide feedback overhead line. As part of this consultation exercise, as part of the PAN process. The PAN was submitted to Argyll on the proposals for the new Creag Dhubh substation by Friday we are seeking stakeholder comments on our ∞ Anticipated Construction Completion and Bute Council on 10th June. As part of the pre-application 13th August via the feedback form, which can be found on Page Preferred Route Option prior to carrying out further process we are required to hold a main public consultation 37, via the project webpage, or via email to the Community project design. *Please note that dates are indicative and subject event. Due to the ongoing COVID 19 pandemic, the Liaison Manager. The comments received will be reviewed and to change dependent on outcomes of consultation Government have directed that all such events must be held responded to and where appropriate changes to the proposed virtually until further notice. We have co-joined this PAN event development will be made prior to submission of the formal with the stakeholder engagement for the wider project. planning application to Argyll & Bute Council in Autumn 2021. It should be noted that the Creag Dubh PAN consultation is a At that time, comments of support or objection can be made statutory event and feedback on the proposals for this element directly to the council as part of the statutory application should be provided on the appropriate form (see Page 37). process. At this time all comments should be directed to SSEN Transmission and not to the Council.

www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/argyll-and-kintyre-275kv-strategy/ www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/argyll-and-kintyre-275kv-strategy/ 18 Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation 19

Creag Dhubh - Inveraray 275kV Overhead Line 3. Routing Options Map 2. Preferred Technology Study Area A Study Area was defined by the existing 132kV overhead line between the proposed Creag Dhubh substation and a connection point Overhead Line on the recently constructed Inveraray to Crossaig overhead line to the north of Inveraray. The proposed new 275kV overhead line will replace the existing 132kV overhead line between Inveraray switching station and the proposed Creag The north western boundary of the Study Area follows the southern shore of Loch Awe to the north of Cladich while the south eastern Dhubh substation, connecting at Creag Dhubh. The existing line will be boundary roughly runs along the southern edge of Glen Shira to Inveraray. This allowed a range of Route Options and tie-in locations decommissioned and removed upon completion of the new line. The remaining to be analysed. 132kV overhead line from Creag Dhubh substation to Taynuilt will not be altered during this project. Following on from this, six potential Route Options to connect the Inveraray to Crossaig overhead line with the proposed Creag Dhubh 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 210 11 12 13 14 15 substation were developed, taking into account the physical, environmental and amenity constraints. Legend The proposed overhead line will consist of towers which are typical for the UK; These are shown on the map below. Proposed Creag Dhubh Substation 21 21 lattice steel structures with six arms. Each of these arms will carry two electrical Routeing Study Area wires using an insulated unit. To provide protection from lightning, a single 10 km Buffer earthwire is attached to the top of the tower. This traditional arrangement is Figure Extent 720 720 often described as a double circuit arrangement, because each side of the tower 132kV OHL from Inveraray to Taynuilt carries a single electrical circuit. Inveraray – Crossaig OHL Inveraray – Crossaig Towers In order to accommodate future increases of renewable generation, it is 19 19 Route Option Buffer (500 m) A necessary to increase the operating voltage from 132kV to 275kV. As a result B of this, the new towers need to be taller which means an increase in span (the C 18 18 distance between each tower). This also means that alternative technologies D such as wooden pole or composite pole structures, that are sometimes E considered at 132kV, would not be feasible at 275kV. Preferred Route Option DE Buffer 17 17 (500 m)

The spacing between towers would vary depending on topography, altitude, and land use but would likely be between 300m to 350m. Permanent access tracks 16 16 are required to any angle and terminal tower locations, with temporary access tracks required to access all other towers. At this stage, it has been assumed that towers would be a maximum of 60 m above ground level, with a typical average 15 15 tower height of 50m above ground level.

The project is still however at the early design stage and any approximations 14 14 regarding heights, span and tower numbers will be clarified during the next stage of design.

13 13

02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 210 11 12 13 14 15 Existing tower height: Approx. 27m 12 Legend 12 New tower height: Approx. 50m Proposed Creag Dhubh Substation 21 21 Routeing Study Area Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of HMSO. Crown copyright and database right 2021 all rights reserved. 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 210 11 12 13 14 15 Ordnance Survey Licence number EL273236. 11 Legend 10 km Buffer 11 Project No: LT000194 Figure Extent Proposed Creag Dhubh Substation Project: 1620011091 21 720 21 720 132kV OHL from Inveraray to Taynuilt Title: LT194 Inveraray to Creag Dhubh 275 kV

N Routeing Study Area . Overhead Line m 0

0 710

0 Inveraray – Crossaig OHL

0 10 km Buffer Existing tower span: Approx. 255m 2 1 Figure 2: Route Options 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 7 14 15 Inveraray – Crossaig Towers Scale @ A3: 1:45,000 Legend Figure Extent km New tower span: Approx. 300-350m 7 ¯ 7 Drawn by: NJ Date: 26/05/2021 20 19 0 0.275 0.55 1.1 1.65 2.2 2.75 20 19 Route Option Buffer (500 m) Proposed Creag Dhubh Substation 132kV OHL from Inveraray to Taynuilt 21 202000m.E 2013 04 05 06 07 08 09 210 11 A 12 13 14 15 Drawing: R162_11091_Fig2_RouteOptions_2 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 210 11 12 13 14 15 Routeing Study Area Inveraray – Crossaig OHL Legend B 10 km Buffer Inveraray – Crossaig Towers Key C 19 18 Proposed Creag Dhubh Substation 19 Route Option Buffer (500 m) 18 21 21 Figure Extent 720 720 D 1R3o2ukteVi nOgH SLt ufrdoym A Irnevaeraray to Taynuilt A Existing number of towers to be removed: 35 E I1n0v ekrmar Bayu f–fe Cr rossaig OHL B Preferred Route Option DE Buffer Number of replacement towers: Approx. 30 IFnivgeurraer aEyx t–e nCtrossaig Towers C 18 17 18 17 (500 m) 720 720 19 19 Route O13p2tikoVn OBHuLff efrro (m5 0In0v mer)aray to Taynuilt D AInveraray – Crossaig OHL E BInveraray – Crossaig Towers Preferred Route Option DE Buffer

17 16 17 (500 m) 16 19 19 Route OCption Buffer (500 m) 18 18 DA www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/argyll-and-kintyre-275kv-strategy/ EB www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/argyll-and-kintyre-275kv-strategy/ 16 15 PCreferred Route Option DE Buffer 16 15 18 18 (500 m) 17 17 D E Preferred Route Option DE Buffer 15 14 15 14 17 17 (500 m) 16 16

14 13 14 13 16 16 15 15

13 12 13 12 15 15 14 14

Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of HMSO. Crown copyright and database right 2021 all rights reserved. 12 11 12 11 Ordnance Survey Licence number EL273236. 14 14 13 13 Project No: LT000194 Project: 1620011091

0 Ordnance Survey Licence number EL273236. 11 0 11 710 0

13 0 13

1 Figure 2: Route Options 12 7 12 Project No: LT000194 Scale @ A3: 1:45,000 Project: 1620011091 km ¯ Drawn by: NJ Date: 26/05/2021 0 0.275 0.55 1.1 1.65 2.2 2.75 Title: LT194 Inveraray to Creag Dhubh 275 kV N . 202000m.E 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 210 11 12 13 Overhead Li1n4e 15 Drawing: R162_11091_Fig2_RouteOptions_2 m

0 Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of HMSO.

12 0 12

1 Figure 2: Route Options 11 7 11 Ordnance Survey Licence number EL273236. Scale @ A3: 1:45,000 Project No: LT000194 km ¯ Drawn by: NJ Date: 26/05/2021 0 0.275 0.55 1.1 1.65 2.2 2.75 Project: 1620011091 Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of HMSO. 202000m.E 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 210 11 12 13 14 15 Drawing: R162_11091_Fig2_RouteOptions_2 TitlCe:rown copyLriTg1ht9 a4n Idn dvaetraabraasye troig Chtr 2e0a2g1 Dalhl urigbhht s2 r7e5s ekrVve d. N 11. 11 OrdnOavnecerh Seuarvde Ly iLniece nce number EL273236. m 0

0 710 0

0 Project No: LT000194

1 Figure 2: Route Options 7 Project: 1620011091 Scale @ A3: 1:45,000 km ¯ DTirtalew:n by: NLTJ194 Inveraray to Creag DhDuabteh: 22765/0 k5V/2 021 0 0.275 0.55 1.1 1.65 2.2 2.75 N . Overhead Line m

0 2 000m. 2 0 02 E 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 710 Drawing: R162_11091_Fig2_RouteOptions_2 0 0

1 Figure 2: Route Options 7 Scale @ A3: 1:45,000 km ¯ Drawn by: NJ Date: 26/05/2021 0 0.275 0.55 1.1 1.65 2.2 2.75

202000m.E 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 210 11 12 13 14 15 Drawing: R162_11091_Fig2_RouteOptions_2 20 Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation 21

Creag Dhubh - Inveraray 275kV Overhead Line 4. Routing Options Analysis

4. Routing Options Analysis Route Option C: Overhead Line from Inveraray Substation to the Proposed Creag Dhubh Route Option A: Substation Overhead Line from Balantyre Wood to the Proposed Creag Dhubh Substation • Crosses existing overhead line, the A819 and Ladyfield plantation woodland, an area with potential to contain unexploded ordnance (UXO) associated with historic use as a firing range. • Requires crossing the existing 132kV overhead line and proposed Blarghour Wind Farm site, but does • Has between 2-5% of the Route Option within the 1 in 200-year flood zone. not cross the A819. • Second highest number of properties within Route Option. • Space for tower Alignments limited due to very steep, rocky terrain, proximity of residences and the proximity • Properties/buildings within Route are sparsely laid out. of the existing line. Therefore, mitigating other effects could be difficult. • Avoids intersecting with the Glen Etive and Glen Fyne Special Protection Area (SPA). • Smallest loss of Ancient Woodland and long-established woodland (depending on Alignment) as well as • Likely to be highly constrained by extensive priority peatland habitat and high potential to impact on Schedule second lowest area of commercial forestry lost. 1 birds. • Second lowest number of recorded golden eagle flights. • Impacts on visual amenity likely to be more extensive, and potentially impact on some higher sensitivity areas • High potential for Route to interact with Private Water Supplies. such as the western shore of Loch Awe. • Would require crossing the River Aray and passes through well-preserved pre-Improvement townships at • Longest Route Option at approximately 12km. ‘Drimfern’ and ‘South Tullich’, that would be difficult to avoid. • Has the highest elevations with a maximum elevation of 538m. • Second highest total cost of the five Route Options. • Highest cost Route Option.

Route Option D: Route Option B: Overhead Line from Carloonan to the Proposed Creag Dhubh Substation Overhead Line from Balantyre Wood to the Proposed Creag Dhubh Substation • Crosses the existing 132kV overhead line once and the A819, passes through Ladyfield plantation woodland. • Would cross existing overhead line once and proposed Blarghour Wind Farm access track, doesn’t cross A819 • Between 2-5% within the 1 in 200-year flood zone and runs through the second lowest area of peatland. and has the least minor crossings. • Properties/buildings are sparsely laid out. • Between 2-5% of the Route Option within the 1 in 200-year flood zone. • High potential to be constrained as it intersects the Glen Etive and Glen Fyne SPA. • Substantially more properties within Route Option than other options. • Potential to compromise conservation status of Schedule 1 birds, however, area of the Glen Etive and Glen Fyne SPA intersected by this option has comparatively low levels of golden eagle activity. • Space for tower Alignments limited due to very steep, rocky terrain, proximity of residences and the proximity • Least impact on visual receptors as could be accommodated within the enclosed glen landscape. of the existing line, therefore, mitigating other effects could be difficult. • Passes through fewer areas of open habitat so may have fewer interactions with watercourses. • Lowest number of recorded golden eagle flights. • Second greatest loss of Ancient Woodland and commercial plantation, potential implications to • Would avoid likely significant effects during construction through avoiding interactions with the water downstream hydrology. environment and majority of peatland. • High potential to interact with Private Water Supplies which could require micrositing or further mitigation. • Potential to result in the loss of 21.6 ha of Ancient Woodland (larger than any other option). • Passes through well-preserved pre-Improvement townships at ‘Drimfern’ and ‘South Tullich’, that would be Route Option E: difficult to avoid. • Second lowest cost of the five Route Options. Overhead Line from Inveraray Substation to the Proposed Creag Dhubh Substation

• Wouldn’t cross existing overhead line but would cross A819 and Ladyfield plantation woodland. • No properties within this Route Option. • Runs through second largest area of peatland. • Second highest elevation, after Route Option A. • Has high potential to be constrained as intersects the Glen Etive and Glen Fyne Special Protection Area. • Considered likely to compromise the conservation status of Schedule 1 birds, however, passes through fewer areas of open habitat so may have fewer interactions with watercourses. • Has the lowest total cost of the five Route Options.

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Creag Dhubh - Inveraray 275kV Overhead Line 6. Red Amber Green (RAG) Charts RAG Impact Rating- Engineering

To demonstrate the full extent of analysis undertaken on the Engineering Route Option 5. Our Preferred Route Option six Route Options identified, we created Red Amber Green Infrastructure crossings A B C D E DE (RAG) table’s which illustrate the level of associated risk to each Major Crossings Route Option DE (Preferred): consideration. A high risk is shown as red, a medium risk is shown Minor Roads The aim of our routing guideline process is to provide a balanced assessment of cost engineering and environmental factors in order as amber and a low risk is shown as green. to select the Preferred Route for the new overhead line. Through analysis of the five Route Options, taking account of the factors listed Environmental Design A B C D E DE For further information on the Route Options analysis, please above, a combination of Route Options D and E was considered the optimum solution. This Route Option DE follows Route Option D Elevation in the south from Inveraray to where it intersects Route Option E, then follows Route E to the Creag Dhubh substation. refer to the Consultation Document available from the project Contaminated Land Therefore, Route Option DE has been identified as our Preferred Route. webpage or on request. Flooding

200 This01 option02 intersects03 the04 Glen Etive05 and06 Glen Fyne07 Special08 Protection09 210 Area in1 1the north12 but avoids13 the14 areas15 within 1the6 Study17 Area 18 Ground Condition A B C D E DE with the highest density of protected bird flight activity. It also appears to pass through fewer areas of open habitat so may have fewer Legend RAG Impact Rating- Environmental Terrain interactions with wetlands. This does however mean a greater area of forestry felling may be required, which has potential implications Proposed Creag Dhubh Substation 23 23 Carbon & Peatland to downstream hydrology. It will have the second greatest loss of Ancient Woodland and commercial plantation, however, would have RouteinEnvironmentalg Study Area Route Option the least impact on visual receptors as the Route could be within the enclosed glen landscape, therefore, forestry and woodland would 10 km Buffer Proximity A B C D E DE provide a high degree of screening of the central and southern sections. Natural Heritage A B C D E DE 22 22 Figure Extent Clearance European Designated Sites-Ornithology 132kV OHL from Inveraray to Windfarms Taynuilt Designated Sites-Ancient Woodland 21 21 Inveraray – Crossaig OHL Communication Masts Regional Designations Inveraray – Crossaig Towers Additional Consideration A B C D E DE PreferreProtectedd Route Opt iSpecieson DE 720 720 Route length Habitats Unexploded rounds Schedule 1 Birds 19 19 Birds of Conservation Concern Hydrology / Geology RAG Impact Rating- Cost 18 18 Cultural Heritage A B C D E DE Cost Route Option Designations 17 17 A B C D E DE Cultural Heritage Assets Capital People A B C D E DE 16 16 Diversions Proximity to Dwellings Public Road Improvement Landscape and Visual A B C D E DE 15 15 Tree Felling Designations Land Assembly Character

14 14 Consent Mitigations 200 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 210 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 200 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 210 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Visual Legend Inspections Land Use A B C D E DE Proposed Creag Dhubh Substation 23 13 23 Proposed Creag Dhubh Substation 13 Maintenance 23 23 Agriculture 200 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 210 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Routeing Study Area Total Cost Legend Forestry 10 km Buffer 22 12 22 Proposed Creag Dhubh Substation 12 223 223 Recreation 23 23 Figure Extent Routeing Study Area 132kV OHL from Inveraray to Planning A B C D E DE T1a0y knmui lBt uffer 21 11 21 11 Policy 212 212 Inveraray – Crossaig OHL IFnivgeurraer aEyx t–e nCtrossaig OHL Proposals I1n3v2ekrVar aOyH –L Cfrroomss Ianivge Traorwaeyr sto Taynuilt 710 PTareyfneurirlet d Route Option DE 710 Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of HMSO. 720 720 Preferred Route Option DE 7201 72210 Crown copyright and database right 2021 all rights reserved. Inveraray – Crossaig OHL Ordnance Survey Licence number EL273236. Inveraray – Crossaig Towers Project No: LT000194 Project: 1620011091 09 09 19 19 Preferred Route Option DE 71290 17290 Title: LT194 Inveraray to Creag Dhubh 275 kV Overhead Line N . m Figure 8: Preferred Route Option DE 0

0 08 0

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189 7 189 km ¯ Drawn by: BM Date: 26/05/2021 0 0.375 0.75 1.5 2.25 3 3.75

200000m.E 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 210 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Drawing: R162_11091_Fig8_PreferredRouteOption_2

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710 710 Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of HMSO. 7 7 Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of HMSO. 1101 110 Crown copyright and database right 2021 all rights reserved. Crown copyright and database right 2021 all rights reserved. Ordnance Survey Licence number EL273236. Ordnance Survey Licence number EL273236. Project No: LT000194 Project No: LT000194 Project: 1620011091 09 09 Project: 1620011091 70190 07190 Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of HMSO. TitlCer:own copyLriTgh1t9 a4n dIn dvaetraabraasye troig hCt r2e0a2g1 Dalhl ruigbhhts 2 r7e5se krvVe d. Title: LT194 Inveraray to Creag Dhubh 275 kV OrdnOanvceer hSeuarvde Ly iLniece nce number EL273236. Overhead Line N . Project No: LT000194 N m . Figure 8: Preferred Route Option DE 0 m

0 Figure 8: Preferred Route Option DE

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0 Scale @ A3: 1:60,000 7 km Title: LT194 Inveraray to Creag Dhubh 275 kV ¯ km DTirtalew: n by: BLTM194 Inveraray to Creag DhDuabteh: 22765/0 k5V/2 021 ¯ 0 0.375 0.75 1.5 2.25 3 3.75 Drawn by: BOMverhead Line Date: 26/05/2021 0 0.375 0.75 1.5 2.25 3 3.75 Overhead Line 200000m.E 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 210 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 N

N Drawing: R162_11091_Fig8_PreferredRouteOption_2

. 2 000m. 2 . 00 E 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Drawing: R162_11091_Fig8_PreferredRouteOption_2 m m Figure 8: Preferred Route Option DE

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0 Scale @ A3: 1:60,000 7 7 km ¯ Drawn by: BM Date: 26/05/2021 ¯ 0 0.375 0.75 1.5 2.25 3 3.75 BM 0 0.375 0.75 1.5 2.25 3 3.75

200000m.E 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 210 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 Drawing: R162_11091_Fig8_PreferredRouteOption_2 24 Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation 25

Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Substations

1. About the project 2. Site Option Selection Process The outputs of the MCA are heat maps which indicate the least Project Need To begin to identify potential site options for the proposed new substations, a Study Area was defined constrained locations for the Site Options. Due to the projected increase in renewable energy generation in Argyll, a need has been identified for the upgrade and reinforcement with the following parameters: of the electricity transmission network on the Argyll peninsula to ensure supply and support the transition to net zero emissions. The aim was to include sites adjacent to the existing substations • a distance of up to 1km on either side of the Inveraray to allow for extension; where this has not occurred, it is because As described during the development process for the Inveraray – Crossaig overhead line rebuild, the replacement overhead line is -Crossaig 275kV overhead line; and there is insufficient unconstrained area for an extension. being built at a higher 275kV voltage, initially operating at 132kV between Inveraray and Crossaig. As future renewable generation • a distance of up to 3km from the existing substations for Within the Study Area, five Site Options for An Suidhe, six Site requirements connect to the electricity network and the operating voltage is required to increase to 275kV, substations along the route An Suidhe and Crarae and 20km to the north of the existing Options for Crarae and seven Site Options for Crossaig North will also require to be replaced in order to accommodate this increase. Crossaig substation. have been identified.

The smaller Study Area for An Suidhe and Crarae is to reduce the A Red/Amber/Green (RAG) rating was then applied to each, extent of movement of the existing wind farm connection. with RED indicating a high potential for constraint, amber Project overview: For Crossaig North, a Study Area extending to south of Tarbert indicating intermediate potential for constraint and GREEN was considered, due to the locations of existing and potential indicating low potential for constraint. Please note that a RED We are therefore proposing to construct and operate four (4) future wind farms north of Crossaig but south of Tarbert. or AMBER rating does not necessarily mean that the Site Option new 275kV electricity substations at the following locations: would be unacceptable in planning terms but indicates the need Following the identification of Study Areas, a Multi-Criteria for further consideration of the potential to mitigate potentially • in the vicinity of the existing An Suidhe substation; Analysis (MCA) process was undertaken which used Geographical adverse effects. • in the vicinity of the existing Crarae substation; Information Systems (GIS) to analyse available digital datasets on • in the vicinity of Craig Murrail, north of environmental and technical constraints. Lochgilphead; and • in the vicinity of the existing Crossaig substation.

Once the 275kV substations are constructed, the existing Performance Comparative Appraisal 132kV An Suidhe, Crarae and Crossaig substations will Low potential for the development to be Most Preferred be decommissioned. constrained = Green Intermediate potential for the development A maximum area of 8 hectares (ha) has been identified for to be constrained = Amber each site option, to allow for the installation of either an High potential for the development to be air-insulated substation (AIS) or a gas-insulated substation Least Preferred constrained = Red (GIS) structure, as well as allowing space for ancillary works, construction laydown areas, access requirements and potential landscaping; and an estimated maximum gantry You can read the full Site Option analysis within our height of 15m. Consultation Document, but for ease, we’ve included maps indicating the locations of each Substation Site Option The substations would resemble the existing substations as (highlighting our Preferred Site Option) along with subsequent shown in the image to the right. RAG tables in the following pages.

What we are consulting on: Previous Consultation: For each substation, we have identified different Site Options As part of the development of the Inveraray – Crossaig Project, alongside a Preferred Site Option, for where we believe each in March 2016, we consulted on the design and construction new substation is best situated. We are seeking comments on the of Craig Murrail substation and comments were invited Preferred Site Options and any additional local knowledge of the from stakeholders on the proposals. The substation was not area which may assist with further refinement. progressed due to generation requirements at the time, however increases in generation requests across the region have triggered the requirement for the substation.

This will be the first consultations undertaken for the other three substation sites.

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Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Substations

02 03 04 05 06 07 3. An Suidhe Map Legend 4. An Suidhe Assessment Site Options 08 08 Preferred Site Option - AS1

ExistingRAG An Suidhe Impact Substation Rating - Environmental RAG Impact Rating - Engineering Inveraray to Crossaig 275 kV OHL (under construction)Environmental Site options Engineering Site options

Natural Heritage AS1 AS2 AS3 AS4 AS5 Access & Connectivity AS1 AS2 AS3 AS4 AS5 Designations Construction Access

07 07 Protected Species Operation & Maintenance Habitats Existing Circuits/Networks Ornithology Future Development Possibilities Hydrology Interface with SSEN Distribution

AS3 Geology DNO Connection AS5 Cultural Heritage Footprint Requirements AS2 Designated Heritage Assets Technology 06 AS4 06 Non-designated Heritage Assets Adjacent Land Use People Space Availability Proximity to Dwellings Hazards AS1 Landscape and Visual Unique Hazards Designations Existing Utilities Character Ground Condtions 05 05 Visual Topography Land Use Geology Agriculture Environmental Conditions Forestry Elevation

02 03 04 05 06 07 Recreation Salt Pollution LegendKey Planning Flooding 04 04 SiteSite Options 08 08 Policy Carbon Footprint PreferredPreferred Site Site Option Option - AS1 - AS1 Proposals SF6 Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of HMSO. ExistingExisting An An Suidhe Suidhe Substation Substation Crown copyright and database right 2021 all rights reserved. Ordnance Survey Licence number EL273236. Contaminated Land InverarayInveraray to toCrossaig Crossaig 275kV 275 OHL kV OHL Project No: LT000155/288 Noise (proximity to properties (under(under construction) construction) Project: 1620011091-002: Argyll substations Title: North Argyll 275kV Upgrade: An Suidhe Substation

N Figure 7A: Preferred Site - An Suidhe 03 000m. Scale @ A3: 1:20,000 03 7 km ¯ Drawn by: CF Date: 07/06/2021 0 0.125 0.25 0.5 0.75 1 1.25

202000m.E 03 04 05 06 07 Drawing: Fig7A_PreferredSite_AnSuidhe_B 07 07 Preferred Option:

Overall, Site Option AS1 is considered to be the preferred site on the basis of least potential for environmental, technical and cost constraints.

AS3 AS5 AS2

06 AS4 06

www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/argyll-and-kintyre-275kv-strategy/ www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/argyll-and-kintyre-275kv-strategy/ AS1

05 05

04 04

Project No: LT000155/288 Project: 1620011091-002: Argyll substations

Title: North Argyll 275kV Upgrade: An Suidhe Substation

N Figure 7A: Preferred Site - An Suidhe 03 000m. Scale @ A3: 1:20,000 03 7 km ¯ Drawn by: CF Date: 07/06/2021 0 0.125 0.25 0.5 0.75 1 1.25

202000m.E 03 04 05 06 07 Drawing: Fig7A_PreferredSite_AnSuidhe_B 28 Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation 29

Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Substations

94 95 96 97 98 99 5. Crarae Map Legend 6. Crarae Assessment

Site Options 01 01 PreferredRAG Site Option Impact - CE5 Rating - Environmental RAG Impact Rating - Engineering Existing Crarae Substation Inveraray to Crossaig 275 kV OHL (underEnvironmental construction) Site options Engineering Site options Natural Heritage CE1 CE2 CE3 CE4 CE5 CE6 Access & Connectivity CE1 CE2 CE3 CE4 CE5 CE6 Designations Construction Access Protected Species Operation & Maintenance 700 700 Habitats Existing Circuits/Networks Ornithology Future Development Possibilities Hydrology Interface with SSEN Geology Distribution Cultural Heritage DNO Connection Designated Heritage 99 99 Footprint Requirements Assets Technology Non-designated Heritage Assets Adjacent Land Use People Space Availability Proximity to Dwellings Hazards Landscape and Visual Unique Hazards CE1 CE2 98 98 Designations Existing Utilities CE4 Character Ground Condtions CE3 Visual Topography

CE6 CE5 Land Use Geology Agriculture Environmental Conditions

94 95 96 97 98 99 LegendKey Forestry Elevation 97 97 Recreation Salt Pollution SiteSite Options 01 01 Planning Flooding PreferredPreferred SiteSite Option Option - CE5- CE5 Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of HMSO. Crown copyright and databasePolicy right 2021 all rights reserved. Carbon Footprint ExistingExisting Crarae Crarae Substation Substation Ordnance Survey Licence number EL273236. Project No: LT000155/288Proposals SF6 InverarayInveraray to to Crossaig Crossaig 275kV 275 kV Project: 1620011091-002: Argyll substations OHL (under construction) OHL (under construction) Title: North Argyll 275kV Upgrade: Crarae Contaminated Land Substation

N Noise (proximity to Figure 7B: Preferred Site - Crarae 96 000m. Scale @ A3: 1:20,000 properties 96 6 km ¯ Drawn by: CF Date: 07/06/2021 0 0.125 0.25 0.5 0.75 1 1.25

194000m.E 95 96 97 98 99 Drawing: Fig7B_PreferredSite_Crarae_B

700 700

Preferred Option:

Overall, Site Option CE5 is considered to be the preferred site on the basis of least potential for environmental and technical constraints.

99 99

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CE1 98 CE2 98

CE4 CE3

CE6 CE5

97 97

Project No: LT000155/288 Project: 1620011091-002: Argyll substations

Title: North Argyll 275kV Upgrade: Crarae Substation

N Figure 7B: Preferred Site - Crarae 96 000m. Scale @ A3: 1:20,000 96 6 km ¯ Drawn by: CF Date: 07/06/2021 0 0.125 0.25 0.5 0.75 1 1.25

194000m.E 95 96 97 98 99 Drawing: Fig7B_PreferredSite_Crarae_B 30 Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation 31

Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Substations

86 87 88 89 190 91 7. Craig Murrail Map Legend 8. Craig Murrail Assessment

Site Option PreferredRAG Site Impact Rating - Environmental RAG Impact Rating - Engineering Inveraray to Crossaig 275 kV OHL (under construction) Environmental Site options Engineering Site options preferred PS 92 92 Natural Heritage CM1 CM2 CM3 CM4 CM1 CM2 CM3 CM4 Site 2015 2015 Designations Health and Safety

Protected Species Construction timescales Habitats Access and connectivity Ornithology Availability Hydrology 91 91 Geology Maintenance Requirements Cultural Heritage Flexibility

CM1 Designated Heritage Assets Non-designated Heritage Assets Location: People Unlike the other substations being consulted on, there is not an existing Craig Murrail substation. 6 6 Proximity to Dwellings 90 CM2 90 Site Options considered for this substation are north Landscape and Visual of Lochgilphead, close to the new Inveraray – Crossaig Designations overhead line. Character History: Visual A site selection exercise was undertaken in 2015 for the Land Use proposed Craig Murrail substation. At that time, four substation Site Options were identified and compared. Agriculture 89 89 A preference for two of the four sites was identified, Forestry subject to further site investigation. Based on a civil 86 87 88 89 190 91 engineering desk study, an amendment to one of Legend Recreation Key the two preferred sites was made and this amended Planning Site OptionsOption site was ultimately selected as the preferred site. CM3 CM4 Policy Preferred Site Site 2015 Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of HMSO. Some limited further design work was undertaken; Crown copyright and database right 2021 all rights reserved. Inveraray to to Crossaig Crossaig 275kV 275 OHL kV OHL Ordnance SurveyProposals Licence number EL273236. however, no site surveys were completed as the

N (under construction) construction) Project No: LT000155/288 project was then put on hold. 88 Project: 1620011091-002: Argyll substations 000m. 88 6 Title: North Argyll 275kV Upgrade: Craig Murrail Substation Site Options:

92 92 Figure 7C: PreferredPreferred Site Option - Craig Murrail Option: In order to ensure the site selection process is Scale @ A3: 1:20,000 completed in line with current SSEN Transmission site km ¯ Drawn by: CF Date: 07/06/2021 0 0.125 0.25 0.5 0.75 1 1.25 Overall, the Preferred Site identified in 2015 selection guidance, an additional Site Selection Study 186000m.E 87 88 89 190 91 Drawing: Fig7C_PreferredSite_CraigMurrail_Bremains the preferred site on the basis of least has been undertaken in respect of the five substation potential for environmental, technical and Site Options considered in 2015. Again, a Red/Amber/ cost constraints. Green (RAG) rating was then applied to each criteria, as demonstrated above.

91 91

CM1

www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/argyll-and-kintyre-275kv-strategy/ www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/argyll-and-kintyre-275kv-strategy/ 690 CM2 690

89 89

N Project No: LT000155/288

88 Project: 1620011091-002: Argyll substations 000m. 88 6 Title: North Argyll 275kV Upgrade: Craig Murrail Substation

Figure 7C: Preferred Site Option - Craig Murrail

Scale @ A3: 1:20,000 km ¯ Drawn by: CF Date: 07/06/2021 0 0.125 0.25 0.5 0.75 1 1.25

186000m.E 87 88 89 190 91 Drawing: Fig7C_PreferredSite_CraigMurrail_B 32 Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation 33

Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Substations

72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 180 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 190 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 9. Crossaig North Map Legend 10. Crossaig North Assessment Site Options 69 69 Preferred Site Option - CG2 ExistingRAG Crossaig Impact Substation Rating - Environmental RAG Impact Rating - Engineering 68 68 (To be retained) Inveraray to Crossaig 275 kV Environmental Site options Engineering Site options 67 CG7 67 OHL (under construction) Access & CG6 Natural Heritage CG1 CG2 CG3 CG4 CG5 CG6 CG7 CG1 CG2 CG3 CG4 CG5 CG6 CG7 66 66 Connectivity Designations Construction 65 65 Access Protected Species Operation & Habitats 64 64 Maintenance Ornithology Existing Circuits/ 63 63 Hydrology Networks Future 62 62 Geology Development Cultural Heritage Possibilities 61 61 Designated Heritage Interface with Assets SSEN Distribution 660 660 Non-designated DNO Connection CG5 Heritage Assets 59 59 Footprint Requirements CG4 People Technology 58 58 Proximity to Dwellings Adjacent Land Use 57 57 Landscape and Visual Space Availability Designations 56 56 Hazards Character CG3 Unique Hazards 55 55 Visual Existing Utilities Land Use

54 54 Ground Condtions Agriculture 72 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 180 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 190 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 Topography KeyLegend Forestry 53 53 Site Options Geology 69 69 Recreation Preferred Site Option - CG2 52 52 Environmental Conditions Existing Crossaig Substation Reproduced by permissionPlanning of Ordnance Survey on behalf of HMSO. 68 68 (To be retained) Crown copyright and database right 2021 all rights reserved. Elevation Ordnance SurveyPolicy Licence number EL273236. 51 Inveraray to Crossaig 275 kV 51 Project No: LT000155/288 Salt Pollution 67 CG7 CG1 67 OHL (under construction) Project: 1620011091-002:Proposals Argyll substations CG6 Flooding 650 650 Title: North Argyll 275kV Upgrade: Crossaig 66 66 CG2 Substation Carbon Footprint N Figure 7D - Preferred Site - Crossaig 49

65 000m. 65 Scale @ A3: 1:80,000 Preferred Option: SF6 49 6 km ¯ Drawn by: CF Date: 07/06/2021 0 0.5 1 2 3 4 5 Contaminated 64 64 172000m.E 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 180 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 190 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 Drawing: Fig7D_PreferredSite_Crossaig_BOverall, Site Option CG2 (immediately Land adjacent to the existing Crossaig Substation) 63 63 Noise (proximity is considered the be the preferred site on the to properties

62 62 basis of least potential for environmental, technical and cost constraints.

61 61

660 660

CG5 59 59 CG4

58 58

57 57

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CG3 55 55

54 54

53 53

52 52 Reproduced by permission of Ordnance Survey on behalf of HMSO. Crown copyright and database right 2021 all rights reserved. Ordnance Survey Licence number EL273236. 51 51 CG1 Project No: LT000155/288 Project: 1620011091-002: Argyll substations

650 650 Title: North Argyll 275kV Upgrade: Crossaig CG2 Substation

N Figure 7D - Preferred Site - Crossaig 49 000m. Scale @ A3: 1:80,000 49 6 km ¯ Drawn by: CF Date: 07/06/2021 0 0.5 1 2 3 4 5

172000m.E 73 74 75 76 77 78 79 180 81 82 83 84 85 86 87 88 89 190 91 92 93 94 95 96 97 Drawing: Fig7D_PreferredSite_Crossaig_B 34 Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation 35

What else is happening in Argyll? How do I have my say?

Alongside the Argyll 275kV Strategy, SSEN Transmission are currently developing and We understand and recognise the value of the feedback provided by members of the public constructing additional reinforcement, generation connection and VISTA projects across Argyll. during all engagements, consultations and events. Without this valuable feedback, the Project We’ve provided a list of our SSEN Transmission projects in the region below, alongside a short description and links to where you can Development team would be unable to progress projects and reach a balanced proposal to access further information. submit for planning.

Autumn/Winter 2025. Consultation on the preferred route for We are keen to receive your views and comments with regards to the following elements of our projects and will be seeking feedback Windfarm Connection Projects the OHL is targeted for Winter 2021. from members of the public on this exhibition until Friday 13th August 2021. You will find the appropriate feedback forms at the end of this booklet: As mentioned, the Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy is required Earraghail Wind Farm: The project aims to connect the for the facilitation of renewable generation in Argyll. We also Earraghail Wind Farm development via c3km of 275kV Double have a requirement to connect this renewable generation to Circuit Overhead Line onto the existing Craig Murrail – Crossaig our upgraded infrastructure. We plan to begin consulting on Overhead Line for October 2025. Consultation on the preferred the options for the following windfarm connection projects as route for the Overhead Line will be undertaken in Spring 2022. follows, where further information will be shared: Creag Dhubh - Dalmally Creag Dhubh - Inveraray 2 Tangy 4 Wind Farm: The project aims to connect the Tangy 275kV Connection 1 275kV Overhead Line Sheirdrim Wind Farm Connection: This project aims to 4 Wind Farm development via c22km of 132kV Single Circuit connect the proposed Sheirdrim Wind Farm to the existing Overhead Line onto the existing Crossaig – Carradale • We are seeking stakeholder comments on our Preferred Crossaig Substation via approximately 10km of overhead line by • We’re inviting your comments regarding our Overhead Line for October 2026. Consultation on the Route Option for the replacement Creag Dhubh – Spring 2025. Public consultation on the preferred route for the proposed overhead line route alignment preferred corridor for the Overhead Line will be undertaken Inveraray 275kV overhead line, prior to carrying out Overhead Line (OHL) is targeted for Winter 2021. between Tower 28 (on the preferred 2018 in Spring 2022. alignment) and the Proposed Glen Lochy further project design. switching station. Blarghour Wind Farm Connection: This project aims to High Constellation Wind Farm Connection: This project connect the proposed Blarghour Wind Farm to the new Creag aims to connect High Constellation Wind Farm to the existing • We’d also welcome your views regarding the Dhubh Substation via approximately 10km of overhead line by Crossaig Substation via approximately 400m of underground minor location changes to the preferred Glen cable by Spring 2025. Lochy Switching Station site. Argyll and Kintyre 3 275kV Substations • For Creag Dhubh Substation, we shall Sloy Power Station Substation Rebuild Carradale Substation shortly be submitting a Town and Country • We’re inviting your views regarding our preferred options Transmission assets at Sloy Power Station Substation are reaching The aim of this project is to reinforce Carradale Substation in Planning Application and are seeking for each of the 4 substations and are seeking any the end of their working life and need to be replaced. This project order to enable renewable generation connection requests. formal comments ahead of submitting additional local knowledge of the area which may assist includes a new substation near the existing one at the power This involves the replacement of four existing transformers an application to Argyll and Bute Council. with further refinement. station, tower and gantry works for connection to the existing with higher capacity units to enable this upgraded connection. Please find more information below. overhead line, 11kV cables to be installed to connect back to the Work is ongoing and due to be completed by the end of 2022. power station from the new substation location and removal Find out more: of existing equipment at the existing substation. The project ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/carradale-substation team are currently identifying potential locations and further information is expected to be shared later this year. Creag Dhubh Substation – PAN Comments Dunoon Overhead Line Rebuild In regard to the Creag Dhubh Substation (Creag Your views and comments can be provided to the project team Dhubh – Dalmally 275kv Connection), general by completing the feedback forms within this booklet, via the The aim of this project is to replace the existing overhead Inveraray – Crossaig Reinforcement comments on the proposals can be made throughout project webpage, or by writing to our Community Liaison Manager. transmission network line which connects Dunoon to the wider This project involves the rebuild of the existing overhead line the 12-week period to 02 September 2021. All received feedback will be assessed and the proposed options national grid. The existing overhead line is supported by an old between Inveraray and Crossaig and has been in construction adapted where necessary. design suite of metal lattice towers (often referred to as pylons) To provide feedback on the proposal or to gain since late 2019. Construction on Phase 1 of the project (Inveraray which are coming toward the end of their operational life. further information on the project, please fill in a – Port Ann) is drawing to completion whilst construction on The project is currently in development and consultation on Creag Dhubh Substation feedback form, visit our Phase 2 commenced in May 2021. Find out more: the preferred route alignment is taking place this year. virtual consultation events or contact our Community ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/inveraray-crossaig Find out more: ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/dunoon/ Liaison Manager.

Once planning applications have been submitted there will be an opportunity for the public to make Glen Falloch and Sloy VISTA formal representations to Argyll and Bute Council As part of the SSEN Transmission’s VISTA (Visual Impact of for the proposed Creag Dhubh Substation before a Scottish Transmission Assets) initiative, we are installing a 132kV decision is made on our application. twin cable section of the existing 132kV double overhead line circuit at Sloy and Glen Falloch. Construction commenced earlier this year and 26 steel towers are scheduled to be removed by the Existing Dunoon Overhead Carradale Substation end of 2021. Find out more: Line to be rebuilt ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/vista-glen-falloch-sloy

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How do I have my say? Your feedback - Creag Dhubh Substation PAN

Join our virtual consultation If you prefer, the same form is available to complete online and can be found on the project Our virtual consultation room will launch on the week commencing 12th July, where information regarding our proposals will be webpage: www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/creag-dhubh-dalmally-275kv-connection available alongside opportunities to join the project team for interactive text chat sessions. A link to view the virtual consultation Please complete in BLOCK CAPITALS. (Please tick one box per question only). platform will be available on the Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy project webpage: www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/argyll-and-kintyre-275kv-strategy/ Q1 Have we adequately explained the approach taken to select the preferred site for the Our live chat sessions will be held at the following times: The feedback forms in this booklet can be detached and sent Creag Dhubh substation? back, or you can fill them in online using the form on the project · Wednesday 14th July: 10am-1pm & 5pm-7pm webpage. We do request that any feedback that you wish to be Yes No If no, please tell us how we could provide further explanation · Thursday 15th July: 10am-1pm & 5pm-7pm included in the Report on Consultation is received in written · Thursday 29th July: 10am-1pm & 5pm -7pm format (feedback received via phone calls will be circulated to the project team but would not be included in the Report During these sessions you will be able to send us your questions on Consultation). using a text chat function and they will be answered by the project team. All feedback received will be collated, reviewed and included in the Report on Consultation, along with SSEN Transmission’s responses to the topics raised. The report will be published later this year and will be available to view on the project webpage. If you are unable to join the live chat sessions, there are still plenty of ways to engage with our team: Keep in touch Q2 Do you have any concerns about our preferred site for the Creag Dhubh Substation? If you have any questions or require further information regarding You can contact us by email, phone or post, please see SSEN Transmission’s Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy, please do Yes No If no, please provide information details for the Community Liaison Manager. not hesitate to contact the project Community Liaison Manger:

We are happy to arrange (virtual) meetings for individuals Helen Batey or small groups to discuss any areas of interest and if this is something you would like us to facilitate please contact us [email protected] as soon as possible 01925 800 833 / 07778 453 993 We are happy to post out copies of this brochure, please Helen Batey, Scottish and Southern contact the Community Liaison Manager to arrange this. Electricity Networks, Inveralmond House, 200 Dunkeld Road, Perth, PH1 3AQ Q3 Are there any factors, or important points that should be brought to the attention of the Project Development Team regarding the Creag Dhubh substation site?

Feedback

As part of the consultation exercise, we are seeking comments from members of the public, statutory consultees and other key stakeholders.

We kindly request that all comments are received by Friday 13th August 2021. Further information, should you require it, is available on the project webpage or can be made available in printed format by contacting the Community Liaison Manager. The feedback forms in this booklet can be detached and sent back, or you can fill them in online using the form on the project webpages. We do request that any feedback that you wish to be included in the Report on Consultation is received in written format (feedback received via phone calls will be circulated to the project team but would not be included in the Report on Consultation).

All feedback received will be collated, reviewed and included in our subsequent Report on Consultation, along with SSEN Transmission’s responses to the topics raised. The report will be published later this year and will be available to view on the project webpage.

www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/argyll-and-kintyre-275kv-strategy/ www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/argyll-and-kintyre-275kv-strategy/ 38 Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation 39

Your Feedback - Creag Dhubh – Dalmally 275kV Your feedback - Creag Dhubh - Inveraray Connection 275kV Overhead Line Overhead Line Alignment and Glen Lochy Switching Station Location If you prefer, the same form is available to complete online and can be found on the project webpage: www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/creag-dhubh-inveraray-275kv-overhead-line/ Q1 Do the alignment options presented at this consultation respond to any concerns you had over Please complete in BLOCK CAPITALS. (Please tick one box per question only). the project? Please provide an explanation of your answer.

Q1 Has the requirement for the Creag Dhubh to Inveraray 275kV Overhead Line been clearly explained? Yes No If no, please provide information

Q2 Do you agree with the preferred overhead line route alignment? (GL5)

Yes No Unsure

Q3 If no to Q2, please indicate your preferred overhead line route alignment: Q2 Do you agree with our Preferred Route (DE)? Baseline GL1 GL2 GL3 GL4 Yes No If no, please provide information

Q4 Which of the route alignment options presented would you consider the least preferable option for SSEN Transmission to develop? Please provide an explanation of your answer. Baseline GL1 GL2 GL3 GL4 GL5 None are preferred

Q3 If you do not agree with our Preferred Route, which Route do you prefer? ROUTE A ROUTE B ROUTE C ROUTE D ROUTE E NOT APPLICABLE

Q5 Do you have any comments regarding the design update to the Glen Lochy Switching Station?

Q4 Has the rationale on the preferred technology been clearly explained (Steel Lattice Tower)? Yes No If no, why not?

www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/argyll-and-kintyre-275kv-strategy/ www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/argyll-and-kintyre-275kv-strategy/ 40 Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Strategy Consultation 41

Your feedback - Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Substations Q5 Do you have any comments regarding the preferred technology? If no, why not? Yes No If you prefer, the same form is available to complete online and can be found on the project webpage: https://www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/argyll-and-kintyre-275kv-substations Please complete in BLOCK CAPITALS. (Please tick one box per question only)

Q1 Has the requirement for the Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Substations been clearly explained? Yes No Unsure

Q2 Do you agree with our Preferred Site Option (AS1) for An Suidhe? (Please explain your answer) Yes No Unsure Q6 Are there any factors, or environmental features, that you consider may have been overlooked during the Preferred Route selection process? Yes No If no, why not?

Q3 If you do not agree with our Preferred An Suidhe Site Option, what is your preferred alternative Site Option? (Please explain your answer) AS2 AS3 AS4 AS5

Q4 Do you agree with our Preferred Site Option (CE5) for Crarae?

Yes No Unsure

Q5 If you do not agree with our Preferred Crarae Site Option, what is your preferred alternative Site Option? (Please explain your answer) CE1 CE2 CE3 CE4 CE6

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Q6 Do you agree with our Preferred Site Option (Preferred Site 2015) for Craig Murrail? Your feedback (Please explain your answer)

Yes No Unsure Full name

Address

Q7 If you do not agree with our Preferred Craig Murrail Site Option, what is your preferred alternative Site Option? CM1 CM2 CM3 CM4 Telephone

If you would like to be kept informed of progress on the project please tick this box. Q8 Do you agree with our Preferred Site Option (CG2) for Crossaig North? (Please explain your answer) Yes No Unsure If you would like your comments to remain anonymous please tick this box.

Thank you for taking the time to complete this feedback form. Please submit your completed form by one of the methods below: Post: Scottish Hydro Electric Transmission, Inveralmond House, 200 Dunkeld Road, Perth, PH1 3AQ Email: [email protected] Q9 If you do not agree with our Preferred Crossaig North Site Option, what is your preferred alternative Site Option? (Please explain your answer) The feedback forms and all information provided in this booklet can also be downloaded from the dedicated website: CG1 CG3 CG4 CG5 CG6 CG7 www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/creag-dhubh-dalmally-275kv-connection www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/creag-dhubh-inveraray-275kV-overhead-line www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/argyll-and-kintyre-275kv-strategy/ Any information given on the feedback form can be used and published anonymously as part of Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks consultation report. By completing this feedback form you consent to Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks using feedback for this purpose.

Q10 Are there any factors, or environmental features, that you consider may have been overlooked during the Preferred Site Option selection process? Please use this space to provide any further comments regarding the project or the consultation:

Scottish and Southern Electricity Networks is a trading name of: Scottish and Southern Energy Power Distribution Limited Registered in Scotland No.SC213459; Scottish Hydro Electric Transmission plc Registered in Scotland No. SC213461; Scottish Hydro Electric Power Distribution plc Registered in Scotland No. SC213460; (all having their Registered Offices at Inveralmond House 200 Dunkeld Road Perth PH1 3AQ); and Southern Electric Power Distribution plc Registered in England & Wales No. 04094290 having its Registered Office at Number One Forbury Place, 43 Forbury Road, Reading Berkshire, RG1 3JH which are members of the SSE Group

www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/argyll-and-kintyre-275kv-strategy/ www.ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/argyll-and-kintyre-275kv-strategy/ SSEN Community @ssencommunity ssen-transmission.co.uk