MORE than 200 islanders have objected to a proposal to build a large camp for up to 350 workers amid a second proposal which could see another 350 workers added to the population.
Food and facilities company Sodexo is seeking permission from Highland Council for a camp for SSEN workers in Broadford, Skye, while they are working on a new electricity line connecting to the Western Isles.
The development is to add to the population of the town of around 1000 people for an estimated five years.
Of the 246 public comments, 245 objected to the scheme and one supported the plan.
A second proposal is also in the works by Balfour Beatty.
No formal application has been lodged yet, but it is believed the accommodation could see another 350/400 people in the town.
The plan refers to “key workers accommodation” on land southwest of Tigh Na Greine at the area's former sawmill.
Balfour Beatty has set up a webpage for details and feedback ahead of the application, and are also planning to discussion evenings in the community.
Why are islanders opposed?
Corinne Stephens wrote in response to the Broadford planning application: “In Broadford, with its population of just 1000 residents, a 350-bed workers’ camp will swamp the area.
“As anyone who has ever visited the area in summer months will know, the roads are not set up for the numbers driving them during the tourist season.
“Add another 350 workers turning on and off the Torrin road, which is already known for problems with speeding, and the situation will become difficult and dangerous, increasing the potential for accidents, especially for the children who walk parts of this road.”
Donald MacLennan, who lives in Skye, warned Highland Council: “It is unreasonable to expect a small community like Broadford/Breakish to accept an increase of 350 to its population.
“If the proposed Breakish camp went ahead, the increase could be 700+. And more if various wind farm developers build their own camps.
“The B8083 is inadequate for the amount of heavy traffic required to strip, level, and prepare the site.
“The A87 and village facilities can barely cope with existing seasonal traffic. Existing services, healthcare facilities, policing, etc., are already stretched.”
Who was in favour?
Dave Till, who lives on the island was the only person to formally support the application from Sodexo.
He wrote: “The proposed workers’ camp will provide an additional boost to the many businesses that rely on tourism out of season, including the Co-op and local retail premises.
“It will provide a boost to the local hotels, coffee shops, and restaurants out of season and may result in some of them staying open over the winter, increasing out-of-season employment and bringing additional wealth into the area.”
He continued: “I welcome the positive progress that this application represents to reinforce the main transmission lines to the Isle of Skye and replace the ageing critical infrastructure we rely upon, which is tested and usually fails most winters.
“If Highland Council truly believes there is a climate emergency and is not just paying lip service, approving this planning application is a key step in delivering Net Zero targets for 2045 and 2050.”
Will the plans go ahead?
Planners have said they consulted locals and adapted plans based on concerns and hope to continue a working relationship with them and the local authority.
The camp will not happen unless permission is granted for the new electricity line by the Scottish Government.
However, this is expected to happen as SSEN has said the line needs to be strengthened to maintain electricity to Skye and the Western Isles.
Renewable energy developments are also set to rely on the new line to carry electricity into the national grid.
