01 - What stage is the project at?

In July 2005, Scottish Hydro Electric Transmission Limited (SHETL) and Scottish Power Transmission Limited (SPT) published the proposed route for the 400,000 volts (400kV) overhead electricity transmission line which will replace the existing 132,000 volts (132kV) transmission line between Beauly and Denny. In September 2005 SHETL and SPT submitted applications to the Scottish Ministers under Section 37 of the Electricity Act 1989, to construct and operate the line in their respective licensed areas.

Scottish Ministers announced on 30 August 2006 that the proposed upgrade to the overhead electricity transmission line between Beauly and Denny would be referred to a public inquiry. The inquiry started in February 2007 and evidence was heard in public throughout that year. The Public Inquiry Report by the Reporters is expected towards the end of 2008. Ministers have indicated that a decision on the planning application may be expected during 2009.