COUNCILLORS are to be invited to express their views on a proposed new electricity substation in Sandbank.
A proposal of application notice (PAN) by Scottish Hydro Electric Transmission for a site on High Road, replacing the existing Ardnadam facility, is on the agenda for an Argyll and Bute Council meeting.
A public consultation event was scheduled for March in Dunoon Burgh Hall, with another scheduled for August, with local politicians and organisations made aware of the proposal in February.
Members of the council’s planning, protective services and licensing committee, will have the opportunity to put their views forward at a meeting on Wednesday, April 22.
A report ahead of the meeting said: “Proposed construction and operation of a new 132/33kV Grid Supply Point electricity substation on a new site to the east of A885 High Road, this replacing the existing Ardnadam substation which would be decommissioned on completion on the new facility.
“The proposed development would comprise platform and buildings, associated infrastructure including new vehicular access to the A885, parking, landscaping, boundary treatments, screening and SuDS (sustainable drainage systems). Indicative locations of temporary construction laydown areas are also identified.
“A cable sealing end connection would be developed on land adjacent to the existing Ardnadam substation, this connecting new substation via an underground cable. A site selection process has been undertaken which considered environmental, cost and engineering factors.”
The report also warned: “In considering this item, members should restrict comments to issues relating to the material considerations which may be relevant in the determination of the proposed development in advance of any subsequent application being presented for determination.
“Any opinions or views expressed by councillors at the pre-application stage must be mindful of the overarching requirements of fairness, impartiality and of keeping an open mind.
“The process provides opportunity for officers to give feedback to the prospective applicant on issues which members would wish to see addressed within the planning application submission.”
