13 - Will the new line be close to any properties?

Minimising as far as possible the impact of the replacement line on the visual amenity of the area from Beauly to Denny has been one of the crucial factors for the companies in identifying the proposed route. In keeping with that, visual effects have been assessed for properties and settlement areas, roads, railways, other rights of way, open space and recreation areas.

Another key objective in selecting the proposed route has been to avoid proximity to as many residential properties as possible. There are currently around 90 residential properties located within 100 metres of the existing transmission line. There will be three residential properties within 100 metres of the proposed route for the replacement line: one in the SHETL area and two in the SPT area.

As part of the final design phase, the location of individual towers will be fine-tuned to minimise their effects on areas of particular sensitivity, for example by using topography and planting to minimise the effects on views.