Funding for first phase of power line project confirmed

The electricity regulator Ofgem has confirmed funding for the first phase of a controversial overhead power line project in the north east of Scotland.

The plans for a high-voltage transmission cable and pylons, from Kintore in Aberdeenshire to Tealing in Angus, have sparked significant local objections.

Ofgem said it now had given the go-ahead for the initial phase of construction costs.

The development is still subject to the outcome of a public local inquiry, which begins next month.

The project would see pylons erected along a 66-mile (106km) route.

The steel towers needed would typically be 187ft (57m) high - significantly taller than most pylons in Scotland - and some could be as high as 246ft (75m).

SSE Transmission has described the upgrades as a "critical step" towards clean and affordable power.

The project is part of its wider £29bn Pathway to 2030 investment programme.

In November, Aberdeenshire Council said it had not objected to the power line project.

The local authority's response was made under delegated powers, meaning the decision was made by council officials.

However, neighbouring Angus Council has opposed the project, with one councillor branding it "a colossal act of vandalism".

The Scottish government will ultimately decide whether to give the project the go-ahead.