Information day for Loch Ness Red John hydro power plan
The developer behind the £625 million Red John project is holding a public information event in Dores Hall today.
ILI Group propose a massive 450MW Pump Storage Hydro (PHS) scheme from the hills above Dores to Loch Ness.
Water from the loch would be pumped up to a five million cubic metre reservoir behind a 39m high dam for release to generate electricity at peak demand times
Despite the lure of 390 construction jobs Highland Council has objected with some councillors branding the planning application the worst they have ever seen for lack of vital information. A planning inquiry will almost certainly be held.
ILI said additional information would be put before a future planning committee.
CEO Mark Wilson said: “This open day will be an opportunity for us to listen to the community and answer any questions. Since the planning committee in August we have engaged with Highland Council and local community councils to address their concerns on transport and visual impact. We have now prepared a detailed response to these questions and these will be on display at the open day.
“I hope this additional information can allay any concerns the community may have and explain the many benefits for the local economy, the environment and Scotland.”
Red John would need a 2650m tunnel 6m to 8m in diameter to carry water to and from Loch Ness, and a 100m long power cavern.
The open day is from 3pm-8pm.
