McGrigor calls for more information on undersea power lines option

Jamie McGrigor has again hit out at the threat of giant pylons being sited in the Highlands.

The Conservative MSP has called for more information on whether the cables could be run subsea. Mr McGrigor also backed a call by his party’s Deputy Leader Murdo Fraser for a public inquiry into the planning application for the 400kV Beauly to Denny power line.

Jamie McGrigor said “I back Murdo’s call for the Scottish Executive to launch a public inquiry into the planning application by Scottish and Southern Energy.

“Like many people in the Highlands and Islands, I am horrified by the number and sheer size of the new pylons that could be erected throughout the Highlands.

“If a subsea cable is planned to take electricity from Lewis to the Scottish mainland, could it not stay subsea until it gets nearer to where most of the electricity will be used.

“I fully appreciate that there are considerable extra costs associated with this option, however the unknown health concerns over pylons should mean it is at least fully considered. I would certainly like to see more information on its feasibility”.

Mr McGrigor also called on the Scottish Executive to encourage micro wind turbines, which provide on-site generation of electricity. This, he said, would allow properties or communities in remoter areas to become more energy independent.

“Unobtrusive small systems, which make individual houses and buildings energy independent or at least partly independent and save CO2 emissions, should be an important part of future energy policy”.