Comhairle establishes oversight board as renewable energy construction boom looms
1 December 2024
Comhairle nan Eilean Siar has established a major development oversight board in response to the significant number of major renewable energy projects and related activities anticipated to commence in the Outer Hebrides from late 2026.
Developments such as this will have logistical and related impacts across the islands, including on statutory and other services delivered by the comhairle.
Accommodation planning is necessary in advance as a significant demand for new housing is anticipated to cope with a considerably large number of windfarm and electricity substation construction workers brought in from the mainland.
Developing workforce opportunities and skills for local people as the renewable energy boom takes place locally is another aim.
Other concerns set to arise during the construction phase is the need to enhancing local infrastructure as well as engagement with CMAL and CalMac to ensure an increase in freight ferry capacity is available at the right time.
Refreshed approaches to community engagement and consultation are also on the cards.
The creation of the oversight board seeks to ensure forward looking oversight to minimise disruption and achieve the best outcomes, for the Comhairle, and for the Outer Hebrides, from these developments.
Cllr Paul Steele, chair of the oversight board, said: “We are on the cusp of unprecedented development and activity coming to the islands.
“These opportunities and challenges require detailed co-ordination and planning in respect of the Comhairle’s statutory services such as planning and roads, and to ensure developments provide significant community and legacy benefits across the whole of the island chain.”
