SSEN T signs first deals as part of 1,000-home delivery plan in north of Scotland
SSEN Transmission has kick-started its pledge of supporting the delivery of 1,000 new homes across the north of Scotland by signing the first two major agreements.
The commitment formed part of the electric transmission network provider’s Housing Strategy, which it published last year as part of its £20billion investment to upgrade the transmission network in the north of the country.
Up to 94 new homes are planned for the development after SSEN Transmission stepped in with significant funding for preparatory work that will enable proposals by local firm CalMax Construction to progress.
Stornoway Airport housing plan
The homes – expected to be completed by the end of 2027 – will initially accommodate workers involved in the construction of SSEN Transmission’s proposed Lewis Hub but will then be made available to the local community, with the majority to be delivered as affordable housing through a partnership between CalMax Construction and Tighean Innse Gall (TIG).
In Brechin, SSEN Transmission is supporting the delivery of 47 new homes through a multi-million-pound funding boost for the Brechin Infirmary Housing Development. The investment, which relates to the proposed Kintore to Tealing 400kV overhead line project, will enable North East-based developer the CHAP Group to complete the new homes by the end of 2027. Initially, the properties will accommodate workers building the new overhead line before being made available as affordable and social housing for the local community.
Donald Mackay, Director of CalMax Construction Ltd, said:
"We’re delighted to be working alongside SSEN Transmission and Tighean Innse Gall (TIG) to bring this housing development at Branahuie to life. It’s fantastic to see investment like this coming to Lewis – not only helping to deliver much-needed homes, but also creating and sustaining local jobs, apprenticeships, and opportunities for businesses across the island’s supply chain. We expect to create up to 30 additional jobs as part of this project, including a number of early career and apprenticeship positions – and with up to 100 employees involved in construction at any one time, this will make a real, lasting difference to the local economy while providing a legacy of new affordable homes.”
Hugh Craigie, CHAP Group Managing Director, said:
“CHAP is delighted to receive the backing of SSEN Transmission for this development of much-needed housing in the Brechin area. We look forward to seeing the hard work, of the combined SSEN Transmission/CHAP team, come to fruition.
“CHAP is proud to have played a part in the development of SSEN’s ambitious plans to support 1,000 new homes, and we are excited to embark upon the delivery phase.”