SSEN Transmission is to begin early preparatory activities associated with its Lewis Hub project.
The works will begin with ecological surveys to monitor nesting birds and other protected species, with the surveys continuing throughout the project to ensure appropriate environmental safeguards are maintained.
Other activities that will take place in the coming weeks include: installation of deer fencing around the proposed AC substation and converter station sites; delivery of cabins to a temporary storage area; and removal of invasive plant species.
Many of the activities will be undertaken by local contractors.
The preparatory works will inform the next stage of the consenting process, including applications for the approval of matters specified in planning conditions and the discharge of conditions attached to the planning permission in principle granted by Comhairle nan Eilean Siar.
Meanwhile, principal contractor Balfour Beatty has submitted a planning application for a temporary workforce accommodation village in Stornoway to support construction of the Lewis Hub while protecting local housing, services, and the tourism economy.
The proposed village, on part of the former Dormitory Site off Willowglen Road, would house up to 200 workers in modular, en‑suite units with on‑site catering, leisure and welfare facilities.
If approved, construction would begin in autumn 2026, with use planned from mid‑2027 to 2030. As part of its pledge to act as a good neighbour, Balfour Beatty will operate a clear worker code of conduct, 24/7 on‑site management, dedicated health services, recreation space, and opportunities for local businesses and training.
Callum Wardrop, SSEN Transmission’s project director for the Lewis Hub, said, “As part of our preparations for the development of the Lewis Hub site, we will be undertaking some essential activity in readiness for enabling works, which we hope to begin in spring. While we do not expect the public to experience significant disruption as a result of this activity, we remain focused on minimising any impacts wherever possible.
“We continue to make good progress in preparing further submissions to Comhairle nan Eilean Siar with a view to commencing development at the site, and enabling works and main construction activity will only proceed once the relevant planning conditions have been satisfied.
“Meanwhile, we are working with our principal contractors to proactively plan accommodation for the Lewis Hub workforce. Balfour Beatty’s proposed temporary accommodation village is one part of this, alongside support for nearly 100 new homes near Stornoway Airport and investment to refurbish the Caledonian Hotel – measures that ease pressure on local housing while creating a positive legacy.”
George Young, director of operations at Balfour Beatty, added, “Throughout the development of our proposals for the temporary accommodation village, we have worked closely with the local community to ensure all views are fully understood and reflected in our plans. As we begin early preparatory works on the Lewis Hub we remain committed to contributing positively to the community and local businesses, leaving a lasting and positive legacy for the local area.”
Colin Maclean, construction director of principal contractor RJ McLeod, added, “We welcome the opportunity of being involved in the HVDC Connection works on Lewis and to continue working jointly with SSEN Transmission and their partners, local suppliers and the local community.”
