19 - Why not strengthen the east coast line instead?

This is also a matter that will be assessed by the Inquiry Reporters. Again however, the fact is that to rebuild the east coast line to a level to significantly increase the North-South capacity of the system as an alternative to the Beauly-Denny, would increase costs significantly, result in greater environmental impact overall with more towers required and not deliver the connectivity required by renewable energy developments. Some strengthening of the east coast line is required subsequent to Beauly-Denny in order to further increase the capacity of the overall system as renewable developments increase to meet Government targets. (through relatively uncontentious re-conductoring and re-insulation work which now forms part of the proposed new National Planning Framework).