Beauly to Denny Powerline: Public Inquiry

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Beauly to Denny Powerline: Public Inquiry

The news that the proposals for a powerline from Beauly to Denny are to be heard at a public inquiry has been welcomed by MSPs John Swinney and Mark Ruskell.

The proposals, which will march a swathe of 212ft high mega pylons across Highland Perthshire, have attracted over 17,000 objections along the length of the proposed route. The four local authorities affected have also all objected.

Due to commence in early 2007, the inquiry is expected to arrive at a decision by the end of next year.

John Swinney said: “I made representations some time ago calling for this application to be heard at a public enquiry. I therefore wholeheartedly welcome the announcement that this is to take place. This will provide the ideal opportunity to have this issue considered. There have been a number of concerns from many corners.

“Any such development must be part of a coherent strategy on renewable energy and I hope that in the course of the enquiry, this is borne in mind.”

Mark Ruskell, who is the Green party's spokesman on the environment, has previously raised concerns about the potential human health effects of pylons close to settlements. He is curerently awaiting a response from Perth-based Scottish & Southern Energy plc to his request that the energy company review the potential for using underground techniques, with due consideration to the environmental and economic impact of the most up to date technology available.

Commenting on the public inquiry announcement, MSP Ruskell said: "This inquiry is a valuable opportunity to look closely into the siting of the pylons to ensure that any public health risk is minimised, and gives a chance to re-examine whether parts of the line could be undergrounded cost effectively and without environmental damage."

High Voltage Health Risks

Mark Ruskell is co-convener of the parliamentary Cros -Party Group on Electro-magnetic Radiation & Health which was set up earlier this year to enable MSPs to examine issues concerning the possible impact of EMR on human health. The group recently heard evidence from expert scientists and a leading cancer charity about the health risks posed by high voltage pylon lines close to human habitations.

"The upgrade does need to take place - in a careful and considered way - if Scotland is to make the most of its renewable energy resources and make our own contribution to tackling climate change," added the MSP.