Aberdeenshire Council has confirmed it will not lodge an objection to SSEN Transmission’s proposed 66-mile overhead power line between Kintore and Tealing, despite strong criticism from neighbouring Angus councillors and widespread concerns from local residents.
The scheme, which would see a series of significantly taller steel pylons installed across the north-east, is currently being considered by the Scottish Government’s Energy Consents Unit.
In its formal submission, Aberdeenshire Council’s head of planning and economy, Paul Macari, said the authority had “no objection” to the plans. Officials issued the response under delegated powers following consultation with selected councillors.
The position contrasts sharply with Angus Council, where members unanimously backed a motion earlier this week describing the project as “a colossal act of vandalism” and agreeing to lodge a formal objection.
Public opposition has also been substantial. More than 11,000 residents in the Mearns area have voiced concerns about the impact of the pylons, which will average around 57 metres in height, with some reaching up to 75 metres.
Mearns Conservative councillor Tracey Smith said she was “extremely disappointed” by Aberdeenshire Council’s stance, adding: “My intention is to fight this all the way to Holyrood. The voices of 11,000 people can’t be ignored.”
SSEN Transmission maintains the project is a vital part of its wider £22bn Pathway to 2030 investment programme, describing it as essential to enabling clean and affordable energy for homes across Scotland.
A spokesperson said: “The Kintore–Tealing project has been developed in line with all relevant policies and legislation, balancing community and environmental considerations with technical and economic factors. It represents a critical step towards securing clean, affordable power, reducing reliance on imported energy, and strengthening national energy security.”
The Scottish Government will make the final decision on whether the development proceeds.
