SSEN submitted an application last November to build a substation platform on 200 acres of farmland at Balkemback Farm, near Tealing. The proposed Emmock substation would be the size of nearly 30 football pitches and sit at the southern end of a planned 400kV ‘super-pylon’ route stretching from Tealing to Kintore in Aberdeenshire.

While the overall overhead line scheme will be decided by the Scottish Government, the substation plan is being considered by Angus Council.

The project has proven highly divisive, with community councils and campaign groups warning of serious impacts on the surrounding landscape and rural character. Objections have been submitted by local councils in Tealing, Strathmartine, Forfar, Kirriemuir and Inveresk.

Two key campaign groups – Stop Tealing Industrialisation Group (STIG) and Angus Pylon Action Group (APAG) – submitted a joint 28-page objection, arguing that SSEN has failed to demonstrate a clear need for the development and has not provided sufficient justification for the chosen site.

Concerns raised by the public and local groups include visual and environmental impact on farmland and countryside, potential property devaluation, noise and light pollution, and lack of transparency around alternative options.

Opposition is also mounting along other parts of the proposed pylon route, particularly in Deeside communities such as Drumoak, where residents have raised similar objections.

SSEN, however, maintains that the substation is vital to its broader mission to upgrade the electricity network in the north of Scotland. A spokesperson said the site was selected after a detailed review, including technical, environmental and community input. Adjustments to the design—such as lowering the platform level and reorienting features—were made to address some of the concerns raised.

“The substation is a key part of our plans to support national clean energy and energy security targets,” the company said. “We are continuing to work closely with Angus Council as the planning process moves forward.”