SSEN Transmission will carry out a temporary programme of ground investigation works near the River Beauly as part of permitted development activity to inform plans for the proposed replacement of the Black Bridge.
The works are scheduled to begin on Monday 13 April and will be carried out in stages over approximately six to eight weeks. A small specialist team will undertake surveys and drilling to gather information on local ground conditions.
Local residents and community councils have been informed in advance about the works and what to expect.
The information gathered will support the ongoing design of potential future works at the Black Bridge. Subject to planning consent, the bridge would serve as a route for construction traffic associated with the proposed Fanellan substation development, which is currently the subject of an appeal to the Scottish Government. Accurate ground data helps ensure any future designs are safe and appropriate for the location.
The works are being progressed separately from the Fanellan application under permitted development rights for survey activities, and The Highland Council has been informed.
During the works, people may notice small teams on site, specialist equipment and some vehicle movements. Short-duration single lane closures will be required at specific locations to allow equipment to be safely loaded and unloaded. These are expected to last around 40 minutes at a time, with stop/go signage in place.
A longer single lane closure, managed using temporary traffic lights, is also expected from 27 April for up to ten days. Vehicle movements will be limited and carefully managed, with access to the south side of the Black Bridge via Kiltarlity to help minimise disruption.
The car park on the south side of the Black Bridge will be closed for the duration of the works, with the agreement of the landowner. Access will be maintained for the nearby cemetery and local fisheries.
Laurie Kibblewhite, SSEN Transmission Project Director, commented, “Ground investigations like these are an important step in understanding local ground conditions, and these works taking place will help ensure any future designs are safe and appropriate.
We recognise that activity around the Black Bridge is of interest to the local community, and we are committed to keeping people informed as these works progress, while minimising disruption as far as possible.”