Dumfries and Galloway councillors agree to oppose plan for power line through scenic area

Dumfries and Galloway councillors have voted unanimously to oppose plans for an overhead power line through one of the region’s most scenic areas.

Officials had recommended the planning committee “raise no objections” to the Scottish Power Energy Networks (SPEN) bid.

But on Wednesday members rejected that advice and the authority will lodge a formal objection to Scottish Ministers.

They accepted that SPEN needed to replace outdated existing pylons but instead called for the new cables to be laid underground.

And after lengthy debate a motion proposed by Archie Dryburgh and seconded by John Young carried the day.

It said: “The committee objects as it has not been proven as yet that the proposals would not have an unduly adverse effect on the landscape character due to this proposal running through two regional scenic areas.

“Underground would be the preferred option to protect these sensitive areas, landscape views and visual amenity.”

Councillors Dougie Campbell, the council’s environment champion, urged colleagues to object to the overhead line application.

He said: “I would advise the Scottish Government that it is the view of Dumfries and Galloway Council that the application be subject to a public inquiry.”

Councillor Drysdale insisted the committee “has a duty to withhold approval of this application so that a full and thorough public local inquiry is triggered”.

And Councillor Andy Ferguson suggested that profit lay behind SPEN’s refusal to look at the underground option.

He added: “I’m totally at a loss why this international organisation is trying to ride roughshod across the top of us.

“I think we should be suggesting to the Scottish Government that the cables should be put underground.”

And Councillor Jeff Leaver said: “This gives us an opportunity to rectify a mistake which dates from the 1930s in terms of putting rows of pylons through the beautiful countryside of Dumfries and Galloway.

“I don’t think it’s acceptable to repeat that mistake.”

Annandale North councillor Stephen Thompson said: “I do not see anything in it that links to this council’s climate emergency priorities which includes promoting and protecting our region’s natural environment.”

During the lunchtime recess SPEN asked officials for an extension to provide additional information.

But councillors decided to determine the matter on evidence presented to them on the day.

Their objection to the planned 43km pylon chain running north from Kirkcudbright is expected to trigger a public inquiry.