Moray MP Douglas Ross has sought “reassurances” from SSEN over how they plan to consult on their plans for a new Blackhillock substation in his constituency.
He had been contacted by concerned constituents in Keith who were angry that they had only received flyers the day before an open meeting was held regarding the plans, while the community council say they were not advised of the meeting at all.
Douglas has asked SSEN for another meeting to be held over the Blackhillock 2 project and for enough notice to be given to local residents.
In responding to Douglas, SSEN confirmed that there were issues with some residents not receiving the invitations to the meeting on time, after previous planned events had to be postponed due to severe weather. Issues with Royal Mail were cited for some people also receiving them after the event.
SSEN say the project is in the very early stages of development and that the open day was one of a number of engagement events they will be holding.
They also informed Douglas that they are currently in the feedback stage of the project and that a significant level of response from the community has been received.
Douglas- who earlier this year visited SSEN’s current Blackhillock substation- has encouraged all constituents to make their voices heard through the feedback consultation, which is open until April 21.
He added that he will be continuing to work closely with SSEN to ensure that this project develops with the “local community always in mind” and that there are further opportunities for discussion between SSEN and local residents.
Moray MP Douglas Ross said: “Many constituents in Keith have contacted me about their concerns over not being informed of this crucial open day that was taking place.
“It is understandable that they were frustrated given the impact this substation will have on the areas close to where it is being proposed to be developed.
“Having recently visited SSEN’s current Blackhillock substation, I know the impact of the current site and believe it’s absolutely vital that SSEN engage fully with local people and community groups, which is why I sought reassurances from them over what consultations they are planning.
“It was extremely disappointing that some missed out on this open day, but I would encourage everyone who will be affected by this development to make their voices heard through the feedback consultation, which still has weeks to run.
“Ensuring that this project is always developed with the community in mind should be at the heart of SSEN’s thinking and I will be continuing to liaise closely with them as their plans develop to ensure that happens.”
