THE first of the steel lattice towers have been erected on SSEN Transmission‘s Creag Dhubh-Inveraray 275kV overhead line project.
The project will see the construction of a new overhead line between Creag Dhubh substation and Inveraray. The existing 132kV overhead line between Inveraray and Creag Dhubh substation, which was built in the 1960s, will be removed once the new line is fully commissioned.
The new line forms part of SSEN Transmission’s Argyll and Kintyre 275kV reinforcement project, reinforcing the transmission network across Argyll and Kintyre while enabling the future connection and transmission of renewable power in support of Scotland and the UK’s clean energy and energy security ambitions.
To date, over 4km of access tracks have been constructed in support of the Creag Dhubh – Inveraray project, to enable the safe and efficient delivery of works across challenging terrain. Tower assembly is now underway along the rest of the route, with foundations for the remaining towers progressing well.
Despite often challenging weather conditions, the overhead line project has remained on track which SSEN said is thanks to the commitment of the workforce and close collaboration with local Argyll businesses.
Clachan‑based A&L McCrae, working on behalf of United Infrastructure Ltd, has been a key contributor – supplying concrete for both overhead line and substation works as well as providing stone and constructing new access tracks. Their involvement highlights the strong local partnerships underpinning the project’s steady progress.
The new overhead line will connect into a new 275kV substation at Creag Dhubh near Cladich, where construction is now firmly beyond the halfway point. Since works began in summer 2024, the project has moved at pace – BAM Nuttall has completed the extensive earthworks, while Oban‑based TSL Contractors have delivered the two main substation buildings. With this major civil phase now finished, the site has been formally handed over to Siemens Energy to take the lead on the next stage of electrical installation – a clear sign of strong momentum across the programme.
David Fraser, SSEN Transmission’s lead project manager, said, “Completing the first tower at Taynafead near Cladich is a major milestone for the Creag Dhubh – Inveraray overhead line project, and is a positive reflection of the hard work of our teams and delivery partner, United Infrastructure Ltd.
“We’re also making strong progress at the Creag Dhubh substation. BAM Nuttall have now completed the earthworks and TSL have delivered the two main buildings, paving the way for Siemens Energy to take over as principal contractor and begin electrical installation works.
“A key part of our progress has been the contribution of local businesses, with Clachan‑based A & L McCrae and Oban‑based TSL playing a vital role – underlining how engaging the local supply chain helps accelerate delivery.
“Through the Argyll and Kintyre 275kV Reinforcement Project, we’ll continue working with local suppliers and the wider community to maximise economic opportunities across Argyll, while strengthening the transmission network for future generations.”
