Having been closed for forestry operations for much of the last year, access paths up Gleann Cia-aig are to remain closed for all of 2013 due to the start of work on a hydro scheme on the Chia-aig Burn. This affects access to the Loch Lochy Munros, although the work does not affect access from the more popular Kilfinnan start point, and the picnic site and viewing area for the Falls will remain open.
Forestry Commission Scotland (FCS) and Loch Eil Estates in partnership with RWE Npower Renewables announced the start of construction works on the Glen Cia-aig hydro renewables project.
Ben Lennon of FCS said “We are delighted to finally get this project underway. There has been a lot of effort in preparing the site including the harvesting of the mature conifers. At the same time we have been mindful of the important place the Cha-aig Falls has as part of Lochabers tourism offering and we have worked with the developers to
ensure the project does not impact on the spectacular falls. During the construction the picnic site and viewing of the falls will remain open.
Ben went on to say. “Inevitably given the steep terrain there will be restrictions on access through Glen Cha-aig. The site must operate with visitors safety in mind. We are concious that this route is a popular access for hill walkers. However with careful planning of routes access to the hills and wider landscape beyond will still be possible. We will be contacting hill walking organisations ahead of the works, and information signs will be put out at key access points to allow hill walkers to plan their routes and still have a great day out in the Lochaber hills.
Duncan Morrison of RWE said “As the leading developer of small scale hydro in the country, RWE NRL is delighted to be working with FCS on this project. We currently operate 21 hydro schemes in the UK, 12 of which are in Scotland. Once constructed, Cia Aig Hydro scheme will boost our operating portfolio to 22. The scheme itself will generate around 3MW of electricity which is enough to meet the annual average energy needs of around 2200 homes.”
Duncan Morrison of RWE finished by saying, “Construction is likely to take 14 months and we hope this run of the river hydro scheme will be producing green electricity by Spring 2014. During the build phase we will be working closely with the FCS, and other parties to ensure that any disruption is kept to a minimum.”