EHG6364 - DBA and walkover survey - proposed Strathy Wood Wind Farm grid connection

A desk-based assessment and walkover survey were undertaken by C Dagg in 2021 and 2024 to inform an Environmental Impact Assessment in advance of proposals by SSEN to construct and operate approximately 4.5km of new 132 kiloVolt (kV) overhead line (OHL) to connect the consented Strathy Wood Wind Farm1 to the electricity transmission network located approximately 4 km south of Strathy, Sutherland. An initial field survey was carried out in May 2021. The survey work targeted areas under consideration for various route options being considered during the route selection process, which had not been covered by previous survey work for developments in the near vicinity. A further walkover was carried out in February 2024 at alignment selection stage, primarily focused on two recorded heritage assets (Bowside Hut Circles at Dallangwell and Brarathy Township). The purpose of the visit was to identify any associated visible minor features with these two particular heritage assets, and assess the potential for sub-surface remains, in order to advise on the careful placement of infrastructure for the proposed development. No further archaeological features were identified within the study area. The present condition of the known archaeological features was compared with previously recorded information and potential impacts of the proposed development identified. <1>