Go ahead for River Ness hydro scheme
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A SPECTACULAR hydro electric scheme close to the heart of Inverness has been given the green light by Highland Council, and it is hoped it will not only be a source of power, but also an attractive feature on the River Ness.
Council officials granted the application for the ‘Archimedes screw’ to be built into the bank next to Holm Mills Bridge near the West Link distributor road but have placed a total of 17 conditions on the project to safeguard visual amenity, road and pedestrian safety.
The project has been warmly welcomed with local councillor Alex Graham, he said: “This project was first mooted about three years ago and then it came back towards the end of last year. Historically hydro power was generated there in the 1930s in the building that is now the ice-cream shop.
“In the present climate I think it is a very welcome project, one that can not only generate power locally but also become a feature to be enjoyed by visitors and locals.”
Helen Smith, who is on Ballifeary Community Council, said: “We didn’t comment on it but it is tucked away quite far from residential buildings. But from my point of view, personally its fine, I remember there was hydro power there in the past and it might be quite attractive. I’d be surprise if it bothers any local residents.
