Construction of a 900kW hydro-power scheme in the backhills of Largs is being proposed by stakisHydro LLP.

The innovative eco project will be based at Halkshill Estate, and utilise water from the Greeto burn.

The scheme will abstract water from these waters and pump it to a turbine located immediately upstream of Largs; the turbine will be sized at an 992kW to generate electricity. If approved, the scheme will be constructed during the summer and autumn.

The generated power will be fed into the local grid through a connection to the existing power line. An overhead power line will be installed from the turbine house to a connection point, which will be determined by Scottish Power.

Construction of new access roads will be required for the the main site and access will be through Largs and along the existing tracks to the Greeto Bridge and to the turbine house location. and the main access for the delivery of materials will be from the A760 at Blairpark.

Before construction starts the main contractor will be required to develop a detailed traffic management plan for access from both points.

This will outline the routes through Largs for different types of vehicles and any restrictions in the time of day when certain vehicles can use these routes as well as any traffic control measures along the A760.

In their planning report by MNV Consulting, it states; “The road is a core path and currently used for recreation, therefore during construction a management plan will be in operation which will enable walkers to safely use the route with construction vehicles.

This will include warning signs along the track, speed limits and flag men when large vehicles are on the route.”