Overview
About the Project
The existing substation at Willowdale Place supplies the distribution network in eastern Aberdeen and was constructed the late 1960s. The entire outdoor electrical plant has now reached the end of its design life, with the impact of the coastal environment having taken a considerable toll on its condition, meaning maintenance is becoming increasingly challenging.
The original design of the substation does not have the functionality of modern standards, therefore we are proposing to update the site with an improved arrangement of a modern plant housed indoors. This will provide a network capable of the demands of the country’s Net Zero ambitions.
The works will comprise:
- Replacement of the two grid transformers with more efficient modern equivalents of a similar rating, housed indoors
- Replacement of the open busbar arrangement with a modern indoor 132,000V (132kV) switchboard
- Upgrades to the control systems and standby systems, to provide a more reliable service
- Removal of the old outdoor equipment
- Upgrades to the site security arrangements and access road
Community Engagement
Throughout the life of our projects, we aim to work positively with local communities and keep people informed about what we are doing. This is particularly important when we are developing a proposal and we want to understand what local people think about our plans.
We endeavour to take the time to discuss proposals with local community councils, encourage engagement from the wider community and listen to the feedback we receive.
We will do our best to answer any questions and address issues or concerns that are raised with us.
When our project progresses into construction, we will continue working closely with the local community to ensure that our work has as little impact on the lives of those living and working in the area and as many long term positive effects as possible.
How we’re embracing artificial intelligence (AI)
We intend to use AI to assist our experienced teams in the analysis of your feedback, so we can categorise key points raised more quickly. You can learn more about how we’re utilising AI on this dedicated web page.
Project Updates
Foundry Demolition Timelapse Video
Timelapse video showing the excellent progress our Contractors BAM Nuttall Limited and Clarke Demolition have made in the demolition of the existing Foundry building on Willowdale Place since work began in September which is scheduled to run until Spring 2024. The demolition is the first phase of work to enable construction of a new GIS/Transformer hall adjacent to the existing Willowdale Substation in the heart of Aberdeen City Centre.
Willowdale Foundry Timelapse Demolition Video
Demolition Work to Commence 18 September 2023
This work will last until Spring 2024 with a short break over the Christmas period. Once demolition is complete, the ground will be remediated to remove contamination before construction can commence on a new building which will be used to house electrical equipment.
During this time, there will be a significant volume of increased vehicle traffic and disruption to Willowdale Place and we are grateful to all local businesses and residents for their patience during these essential works. To ensure the public’s safety, pedestrian access via Willowdale Place will be temporarily removed during certain aspects of the demolition works.
Temporary Removal of Car Parking
As part of our work to build new critical infrastructure next to the existing site, we will be carrying out further demolition work of the Aberdeen Foundries at 23-41 Willowdale Place from week commencing 28 August 2023. This demolition work will continue until approximately January 2024.
With this in mind, there will be NO PARKING along the eastern foundry wall in the complex of 283-285 King St, Aberdeen AB24 5AN from 28 August 2023 for approximately six months. Please ensure that any vehicle parked along this wall is removed BEFORE 27 August 2023, otherwise we may be forced to remove it for you.
Should you have any concerns regarding the above information, or pertaining to the project in general, then please feel free to contact john.mckellar@sse.com.
Planning Application Submitted
SSEN Transmission are delighted to confirm we have now submitted our planning application to Aberdeen City Council regarding our proposed extension and upgrade of existing 132kV electricity substation including gridsupply point (GSP) and new substation building at Willowdale Place, Aberdeen.
Should you wish to view our application in full and submit formal comment to the council, our application is available to be viewed via the Aberdeen City Council planning portal, using reference 221537/DPP or by visiting the link below:
Feedback Period Closed
Feedback Period Open
Public Consultation Events
The virtual consultation exhibition has been designed to be fully interactive, allowing for presentation of key project information and plans, as well as providing an opportunity to ask questions about the project. Visitors will be able to engage directly with the project team, via a live instant message chat function, where they can ask any questions they might have about the project and share their feedback on the current proposals. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the Community Liaison Manager: Dav Lynch (dav.s.lynch@sse.com)
Project Documents
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ssen-willowdale-gsp-consultation-event-collateral-12pp-booklet-26222-digital.pdf
- Type:
- Date:
- 18 September 2022
- Size:
- 4.3 MB
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ssen-willowdale-gsp-consultation-event-collateral-a4-poster-26223-digital.pdf
- Type:
- Date:
- 18 September 2022
- Size:
- 611.1 KB
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