The proposed Netherton Hub substation near Longside has ignited fresh controversy, with local residents and campaigners voicing strong objections over the scale of the project, claiming it will “dwarf” the nearby village. Meanwhile, developers SSEN Transmission insist the site is essential for Scotland’s energy future and have pledged to address community concerns.
Opponents of the substation argue that the 570-acre site, which will house a 400kV substation, a 132kV substation, two high-voltage converter stations, and several large buildings, is out of all proportion to the rural landscape and the village of Longside. During recent consultations, residents raised concerns about the visual impact, potential flooding, and the sheer scale of the development.
Tensions reached another high at a recent meeting as residents and SSEN went head to head over the “catastrophic” plans.
Energy chiefs explained the benefits of the development – which is planned to have a larger surface area than Monaco – and argued that residents’ objections were “just opinions on policy”.
Roger Bryce, a former community councillor and agricultural specialist, was the first to criticise the company regarding the site, which would be six times larger than Longside itself.
Mr Bryce stated: “It is not a sustainable project.
“It’s significantly bigger than required… It will severely impact the local amenity and tourism.”
He said: “Construction traffic and building sites are not conducive to tourists.
“They will just find alternative unspoilt areas.”
However, an SSEN Transmission representative stated that a study conducted prior to the formal submission of the plans indicated there would be a “negligible impact” on tourism.
The company maintains that the project is a crucial part of its £20 billion ‘Pathway to 2030’ investment programme, which aims to upgrade Scotland’s electricity transmission network to support the transition to renewable energy and meet national clean power targets.
The company says it has incorporated significant land allocation for drainage, screening and landscaping to mitigate visual and environmental impacts, and that the site was chosen from 13 options due to its proximity to existing infrastructure and lower environmental constraints.
Summary of Arguments
| Opponents’ Arguments | Developers’ Arguments |
|---|---|
| The site is excessively large and will “dwarf” Longside | The hub is essential for energy security and clean power |
| Visual impact will fundamentally change the landscape | The site was selected for minimal environmental impact |
| Concerns about flooding and environmental harm | Extensive landscaping and drainage to mitigate concerns |
| Wildlife and ecological disruption | Ongoing ecological surveys and community consultations |
Next Steps
The pre-determination hearing on the Netherton Hub planning application was held on June 4 at Buchan House, Peterhead, allowing those who made valid representations to voice their views to councillors. No decision was made at the hearing; instead, all points raised will be minuted and presented to the Buchan area committee for discussion. Ultimately, a final decision will be made by Aberdeenshire Council’s Infrastructure Services Committee in the coming months .
The full plans can be viewed here.
