Since submission of planning and marine licence applications in September and October 2011 National Grid and SP Transmission’s proposals for the Western HVDC Link have been widely consulted upon and substantial progress made.
Hunterston Converter Station and Substation
The application for planning permission in principle for Hunterston Converter Station and Substation was approved by North Ayrshire Council’s Planning Committee on the 14th of February. The decision notice can be found here.
Marine Cable Route
On the 6th of February Marine Scotland issued a draft marine licence for the installation of the section of marine cable within Scottish Territorial waters. Following discussion with the regulators it is anticipated that draft marine licences from the Marine Management Organisation, Welsh Assembly Government and Northern Ireland Environment Agency and submarine cable consent from the Isle of Man Department of Infrastructure will be issued imminently.
Kelsterton Converter Station
The application for outline planning permission for Kelsterton Converter Station was refused by Flintshire County Council’s Planning Committee on the 8th of February. The decision notice is due to be published shortly. National Grid and SP Transmission will now review their immediate position but will seek to continue to work with Flintshire County Council with the aim of achieving planning consent for the site off Kelsterton Road.
National Grid and SP Transmission will continue to work with the regulatory authorities as the project progresses.