Planning permission granted for Kinardochy to Errochty cable project
15 October 2026
- Perth and Kinross Council grants planning permission in principle for infrastructure associated with project
- Underground cable project forms a key part of plans to upgrade the Beauly to Denny overhead line from 275kV to 400kV operation
We welcome the decision by Perth and Kinross Council’s Planning and Placemaking Committee to grant planning permission in principle for infrastructure associated with a new underground electricity transmission cable between Kinardochy and Errochty substations in Perthshire.
The Kinardochy to Errochty Underground Cable project will involve two 132kV underground cables, each approximately 4km long, connecting the two substations.
Located near Tummel Bridge, the project forms part of our plans to upgrade the Beauly to Denny overhead line from 275kV to 400kV operation, helping increase the capacity of the transmission network to support the country’s clean power ambitions and strengthen energy security.
The Council’s approval, which is subject to planning conditions, covers the supporting infrastructure needed for the cable installation, including permanent access routes, temporary construction compounds and temporary site entrances.
The underground cables themselves do not require planning permission and will be installed under permitted development rights. They will be laid in trenches along a construction corridor between the two substations, with measures in place to keep construction activity safely separated from livestock.
Construction is expected to begin early next year, with the project due for completion in 2031.
United Infrastructure, the project’s principal contractor, plans to hold a ‘Meet the Buyer’ event in the coming months, giving local businesses an opportunity to find out how they could support the project.
We will also work with United Infrastructure and local communities to identify opportunities to deliver wider community benefits and leave a positive legacy in the area.
Kevin Rooney, SSEN Transmission Project Manager, said:
“We welcome the Council’s decision, which marks an important milestone for the Kinardochy to Errochty project and our wider plans to upgrade the Beauly to Denny line to 400kV operation.
“We’re grateful to everyone who has taken the time to engage with us and help shape our plans. As we move towards construction, we’ll continue working closely with local communities and businesses to identify opportunities for the project to deliver lasting benefits for the area."