DEVELOPERS of a proposed hydro-electric power scheme between Loch Thom and Inverkip have been given more time to go ahead with the project.
Greenock Hydro Power Ltd were originally given permission in May 2023 for the 1,000-kilowatt Kip Water facility which will involve a new four-kilometre buried pipeline.
A condition of consent is that work had to start within three years but the applicant asked for a time extension, stating: “Delivery of the development has been affected by delays associated with securing a grid connection.
“The project is dependent on third-party network infrastructure and reinforcement works, the timing and delivery of which are outwith the control of the applicant.
“Engagement with the network operator, Scottish Power Energy Networks is ongoing; however, the anticipated connection programme extends beyond the current time limit for implementation.
“The proposed variation will allow sufficient time for the grid connection to be secured and for the development to be delivered. The proposal does not give rise to any new or additional
impacts and remains acceptable in planning terms.”
Inverclyde Council planners have now agreed to give the developers a further three years in which to start the scheme.
The project will use excess water that is spilled from the Loch Thom Reservoir into the Compensation Reservoir and transfer it by pipeline into the Daff Reservoir.
It will then be moved from the Daff Reservoir to a powerhouse at Bankfoot through a high-pressure buried pipeline. The powerhouse will then return the water to Kip Water unchanged in quality and quantity.
Electricity generated from the scheme will be exported to the National Grid via an overhead line from the existing line north of Dunrod Farm to the switchroom which will be connected via a buried cable to the powerhouse.
Construction will last about 20 months.
Planning officials noted in 2023 that there would be visual impact on the countryside during excavation of the pipeline but the land will be ‘generally reinstated’ to its previous condition and appearance. The construction corridor for the pipeline will be restricted to a width of approximately 18 to 30 metres.
They stated in their report: “The proposed intakes, powerhouse and switchroom are limited in size and will also have a limited visual impact on the landscape.
“Whilst it is accepted there will be an impact on access and recreation, particularly during the construction period, subject to appropriate management, mitigation and aftercare, it is considered that this impact would not be of such significance that the refusal of planning permission is warranted.
“It is considered that through proper management of the construction programme together with reinstatement and mitigation as well as tree planting, the long-term post construction impacts arising from this development will be acceptable.”
| Original application documents on Inverclyde Council planning portal
