Gravir residents opposed to convertor station 10/2/09

The decision by planning councillors to award planning permission comes in the face of furious opposition from residents.

A local informal poll indicates that 72% of Gravir residents are against the station with 26% in favour.

Pairc Community Council accused SSE of ignoring villagers and warned it would have “a detrimental and significant impact” on the area.

The body is concerned that tourism will be hit with a resultant fall in visitor income.

One angry resident said: "We really are disgusted at this decision. The Council has shown that they are clearly willing to see developers trample communities.

“Eishken Estate owner and Beinn Mhor Power director Nicholas Oppenheim said he was willing to have the converter station on his estate, but SSE said it was down to money.

“Lets be clear SSE and BMP are going to make many tens of millions out of these developments, yet they are are not prepared to spend a penny over the odds to have the converter moved to a more acceptable location.

“Those who have the most are taking everything away from a small community of ordinary people, aided by the Comhairle.

“We are very grateful to the local councillors who were prepared to speak out
for the community."