Planning application submitted for haul track to proposed Cambushinnie 400kV substation

 

SSEN Transmission has submitted a planning application to Perth and Kinross Council for a new haul track that will provide access to construction traffic for the proposed Cambushinnie 400kV substation project.  

The haul track from the A822, which intersects the B8033, will enable the delivery of the two 400kV transformers required for the substation. While its construction will result in traffic travelling through Braco for an anticipated 24-week period, once completed it will be used by all traffic associated with the substation project, avoiding the village and minimising long-term disruption. The haul track will also help minimise potential impact on mature trees, hedgerows and habitats along the B8033. The planning application follows an earlier planning submission for the proposed Cambushinnie substation project – a key element of SSEN Transmission’s proposed Beauly to Denny overhead line (OHL) upgrade from 275kV to 400kV operation.  

The upgrade is intended to help deliver high voltage, clean renewable power for connection to homes and businesses across the UK – helping meet Scotland and the UK’s clean power and energy security ambitions. Subject to planning approval, construction of the haul track is intended to commence in April 2026 and last 11 months. No work on the substation will take place until the haul track is completed.

Kevin Rooney, SSEN Transmission Development Project Manager, said:

“The proposed haul track is primarily required for the delivery of two transformers for the substation site, however it will eventually provide access to all construction traffic for the duration of the substation project thereby minimising disruption to the local road network in Braco. It includes the construction of a temporary bridge over the Keir burn, along with a compound to service the works – as part of this, we will introduce screening and noise barriers to limit impact during the construction period. We would like to thank all those who provided feedback as part of our pre-application consultation events, which have been key in helping shape our proposals. We now look forward to working with Perth and Kinross Council and stakeholders as part of the planning submission process.”     

The planning application for the haul track is available to view on Perth and Kinross Council’s online planning system, using reference 25/00984/FLM. To view the planning application for Cambushinnie substation, use reference 25/00490/FLN.