LOCAL supply chain partners have helped SP Energy Networks (SPEN) deliver a £19 million refurbishment of a key electricity transmission line between Gretna and Chapelcross.
The project, which forms part of ScottishPower’s wider investment programme to maintain and modernise the transmission network, involved the refurbishment of the 132kV AL Route, a 14.23km overhead line supported by more than 50 steel towers.
In addition to strengthening the electricity network, the project provided opportunities for businesses across southern Scotland, with local contractors playing a key role in delivering the works.
Lanark-based CL Drainage & Fencing and Annan-based Mackay Development Services delivered vegetation clearance and fencing works. Newton Stewart-based environmental consultancy Connicks, Gretna’s F Sheckley Haulage, Castle Douglas-headquartered Maxwells Construction and Civils Limited, and New Cumnock-based Foundation Solutions HV were tasked with providing civils, haulage and foundation works.
The project also supported 11 trainees, including one from SP Energy Networks and ten from Bathgate-based principal contractor Aureos.
Guy Jefferson, transmission MD at SP Energy Networks, said, “We’re proud that much of the activity associated with this project has supported local businesses and create opportunities for trainees setting out on their careers in energy. It has directly benefited contractors and communities from across the region; supported local jobs and economic growth while delivering infrastructure that will serve customers for many years to come.”
Andy Stewart, project engineer with Aureos, added, “Projects like this give long-term job security. We know as engineers that once we finish one job we are straight onto the next, sometimes working on more than one at once. Having sight of that pipeline of work is hugely important for long-term business stability throughout the supply chain.
“On this project in particular we were able to develop strong local relationships through the engagement of a local contractor who established a yard in Eaglesfield near Annan – that really helps in terms of the local community, they know the outfits that are working here and the standard of work is very high.”
Originally constructed in 1958, the route is a key part of the transmission network in southern Scotland. The refurbishment programme included detailed tower condition assessments, maintenance works, foundation upgrades and the replacement of conductors and insulators to ensure the long-term reliability and resilience of the line.
Sustainability was central to project delivery with three native trees being planted for every tree or shrub removed during construction. The project also reused materials wherever possible; aggregate used to create temporary working platforms was reused by local landowners, while approximately 600 tonnes of stone was transferred to repair and improve an existing track.
