Plans to build two electricity substations at Blackdog, Aberdeenshire, have been delayed.

The decision was made to allow further investigations to take place on the proposed site, and follows a site visit and public hearing held last week.

The proposals by Aberdeen Offshore Wind Farm Ltd would link with an offshore windfarm scheme.

A report presented to Formartine Area Committee on Tuesday recommended support for the application for full planning permission, but several councillors expressed concern in relation to the limited evidence of the potential impact of the development.


The site in question has historically been used for the disposal of waste.

Councillor Allan Hendry said he was disappointed additional documents relating to the history of the site, provided by the applicants, had not been made available before the committee.

He then moved a motion that the application be deferred to allow further investigations to take place.

Mr Hendry's comments were supported by other committee members, including Councillor Cryle Shand, who said a "robust and proper examination of the site" was required.

The most recent investigatory works had taken place in 2003 and 2004

Supporting the motion for deferral, Councillor Jim Gifford called for additional evidence, including the production of an Environmental Impact Assessment, investigation of a former railway track as a possible alternative cabling route, traffic assessments, additional screening measures, and a restoration bond.

(JP/CD)