PLANS have been submitted to national park chiefs for a hydroelectric scheme at Cairndow.
Robert Brakes’ application to Loch Lomond and The Trossachs National Park Authority concerns a site on the Allt Beinn Ime burn.
The proposed run-of-the-river scheme is classed as a small hydro scheme, which it is estimated will generate over 1.1million kilowatts of electricity per year.
A decision from planning officers is expected by mid-February, with the public now able to view plans and submit feedback.
A construction method statement submitted with the application said: “The Beinn Ime hydro scheme is being designed, built, owned and operated by a single company. All design, civils works and operation activities are carried out in-house.
“This means that the responsibility for adherence to standards, conditions, recommendations and the law rests with one responsible entity, which encourages the highest of standards.
“Upon completion of the intakes, penstock and powerhouse the site will be reinstated to a high standard with organic soils and turfs reinstated as close to their original position as possible.
“Bridges across the Kinglas Water and Allt Beinn Ime will be left in place to aid in access to the hydro, but to also provide safe access across the respective watercourses for hill walkers. No permanent tracks will be installed from the access bridges to the powerhouse or intakes.”
It adds that the construction phase is expected to last 16 weeks.
To view the plans and submit feedback, visit the park authority’s planning portal at eplanning.lochlomond-trossachs.org and use the reference number 25/0332/DET.
