Keith townsfolk will have another chance to discuss substation
Register for free to read more of the latest local news. It's easy and will only take a moment.
A new public consultation will be held about plans to build another substation on the outskirts of Keith.
The move follows widespread claims across the town that the last consultation about the proposed Blackhillock 2 substation was not properly advertised.
Energy company SSE has responded by announcing the event will be held again at the Longmore Hall between 2pm-7pm on Tuesday, April 20.
It will happen in conjunction with the second-round of public consultation being held by SSEN for the Beauly-Blackhillock-New Deer-Peterhead overhead line.
In addition, SSEN say the broader consultation feedback period will be extended by a further two weeks until May 5, giving locals more time to submit their views.
Moray's MP and MSP, who were both vocal in calling for a fresh event, have welcomed the announcement.
Douglas Ross MP said: "From my inbox, I know how strongly people in Keith and the surrounding communities feel about these plans for Blackhillock 2.
"Many felt that SSEN was not fully taking local views into account, which is why I relaid my concerns to them and sought reassurances on behalf of local residents.
"I’m pleased that these concerns have been taken on board and that a further extensive consultation event will take place in Keith on April 20.
"I’d encourage all local people with an interest in this project or who want to find out more to go along to speak with SSEN representatives and share their feelings directly with them."
The original public consultation on March 7 had to be cancelled due to bad weather.
A rescheduled event was subsequently held on March 21.
However, many of the fliers printed to advertise it did not reach people in time.
Keith Community Council was amongst those not informed.
SSEN blamed problems with Royal Mail.
Richard Lochhead MSP said: "I am relieved that the urgent requests submitted by myself and many others to have another opportunity to consider SSEN’s proposal have not fallen on deaf ears.
"In the meantime, I plan to meet with SSEN in the coming days to highlight local concerns in advance of the event in the Longmore Hall."
The proposed site for the 400kV Blackhillock 2 substation, is by Drum Farm on Banff Road.
The development would be the third major electricity infrastructure project near Keith in recent years, along with the first Blackhillock substation and a battery project.
Councillor Tracy Colyer (Keith and Cullen, Conservative) said: "I have been engaging closely with local communities over their concerns on this project and what impact they feel it will have on their area.
"That is why it is so important there is as much opportunity for them to give their views to SSEN.
"It is positive that SSEN is now committed to holding another local event in Keith and giving another fortnight for views to be given."
