Protect the Galloway Glens

Scottish Greens are calling on the Scottish Government and Scottish Power Energy Networks put a reinforce powerline through Galloway underground along its entire route rather installing taller pylons. This is more expensive but it is exactly the kind of long-term infrastructure  project that is worthy of investment through the Green New Deal. 17% of the national grid in  England and Wales is undergrounded and, with increasing extreme weather events caused  by climate change, having the power cables underground is not only less impactful on the  environment it is also more secure and stable.

The Kendoon to Tongland 132kV Reinforcement Project (KTR) will have significant adverse  effects on this precious landscape; affecting users of recreational paths, roads and  viewpoints and see the felling of nearly 350 hectares of trees, including 45 hectares of  designated Native or Ancient Semi Natural Woodland; a major and significant impact. The  project will also require seven new quarries to be mined.

The project will also have significant and adverse long-term impacts on tourism and  recreation – a key rural industry – especially for users of the Core Path network, outdoor  tourist destinations, visitor accommodation and recreational activities in the countryside.

Most worrying of all, the impact on climate change has not been specifically assessed in any  detail.

Join our campaign to protect the Galloway Glens and sign our petition to underground these cables.