SNP MSP for Na h-Eileanan an Iar, Alasdair Allan, has welcomed this week’s confirmation that SSEN are no longer actively progressing the Creed North site near Marybank for the construction of its HVDC Converter Station and AC Substation.

While there was widespread support amongst consultees for the project itself, which is a key component for the HVDC subsea link from the Isle of Lewis to the mainland, the strength of feeling amongst the local community regarding the proposed siting of the substation at the Creed North location was clear. SSEN Transmission confirmed today that they would be actively exploring alternative sites, with an update expected in the coming weeks.

Commenting, Alasdair Allan MSP said:

“This news will be very welcome to local community members who had been concerned about the impact of the previously proposed site, given its position in relation to people’s homes.

“This is a good example of how consultation with communities should work – a proposal is consulted on, the feedback analysed and taken on board, then the proposals are adjusted accordingly. This demonstrates the importance of engaging with consultation processes to ensure local voices are heard in decision making processes.

“I met with SSEN last week to discuss the community’s concerns with the site in question, and I am very grateful for their ongoing constructive engagement with regards to this project, which is a vital element of the subsea link, due to be in place by 2030.

“I look forward to hearing more detail of the alternative site proposal in the weeks to come.”