CGL is providing geotechnical investigations and slope stability assessments for refurbishment of a 132kV overhead line between Fort Augustus and Fort William along the Great Glen.

CGL was appointed by Balfour Beatty (on behalf of SSEN) to support upgrade works on the overhead line (OHL) transmission scheme. The project includes replacement of the existing conductors and associated foundation upgrades, which will require access for specialist plant onto steep slopes overlooking the A82 trunk road.

CGL’s work includes an initial walk over and assessment of existing tower positions, followed by a staged qualitative risk assessment of tower positions to further refine ground investigation requirements and slope analysis. A key function of CGL’s support is to assist Balfour Beatty in assessing the slope stability impacts of construction activities and temporary works on the trunk road beneath the Loch Lochy section of the route. This includes liaison with stakeholders representing Transport Scotland.

The project is being supported by CGL’s Harrogate office where our team is very well resourced to handle geotechnical and geoenvironmental site investigations at remote and difficult locations with significant experience in meeting the needs of the power transmission sector.

The overall project will include refurbishment of towers as well as replacement of the existing conductors to carry more power while ensuring the security of supply. More details on the £47m project are at ssen-transmission.co.uk/projects/fort-augustus-fort-william