Motorists have been warned to expect a day of delays as two huge electricity transformers are delivered to a north-east substation.
The two pieces of equipment will be brought to the UK from Regensburg in Germany before being transported from Perth into Aberdeenshire.
SSE has advised that the operation will mean that traffic “will slow” at various parts of the region next Monday.
But Turriff and District councillor, Iain Taylor, said the hassle would be worth it for residents – who will soon enjoy better a better quality of electric supply.
He said: “While it might be a short term pain while the transformers are being transported, it’ll lead to a much bigger gain.
“It’s part of a major project that will ultimately allow for a better supply of electricity.”
On Monday, February 24, the 275/33kV transformers will gradually make their way on to the A90 through Dundee and towards Stonehaven.
They will continue to the AWPR, before reaching the A96 Aberdeen to Inverness road at Craibstone and travelling as far west on the busy trunk route as Colpy.
The units then be taken onto the A920 for a short distance before turning onto the B992 B992 Whitehouse to Mains of Towie route and eventually turning left onto an unclassified road leading to the substation that evening.
The transformers will leave Perth around 9.30am but due to “time and logistical issues involved” specific timings cannot be given for when they are expected to enter the north-east.
Due to the size and weight of each transformer a police escort and special haulage equipment is required.
Throughout the delivery period, there will be “extremely limited “access on the construction site and surrounding roads.
Locals are being encouraged to make alternative travel arrangements in advance for the afternoon and evening where possible.
SSEN transmission project manager, Craig Taylor, said: “These transformers are an integral part of our new substation at Rothienorman which, in turn, will help facilitate the connection of renewable generation.
“As a responsible developer, the transportation of these transformers has been part of our planning process from the very beginning of this project.
“The transformers will be transported outwith the times of rush hour traffic to minimise any disruption.
“However, we realise that on the day that the deliveries are taking place, traffic will slow down temporarily on certain sections of the route.
“I’d like to apologise in advance for any inconvenience this may cause and thank everyone for their patience as our teams go about their work.”
