Public pathway to Pitlochry dam closes
The public pathway across Pitlochry dam closed earlier this week due to the ongoing coronavirus crisis.
SSE Renewables, the owners and operators of Pitlochry Hydro Power Station, announced the closure following UK and Scottish government advice.
The blocking off of the pathway came into effect on Wednesday, March 23“until further notice”.
In order to limit the spread of the virus, governments are advising that if people go outside, they must stay two metres away from others for their safety.
Due to the nature of the walkway at Pitlochry dam, there is not adequate room for this safe distance to be maintained while allowing the operational team to continue their work at a safe distance from visitors.
Andy Hay, SSE Renewables Hydro operations manager, said:“The decision to close the walkway is not one that has been taken lightly, but given the current circumstances, it is one we need to take to ensure the safety of our employees and the public.
“Safety is our number one priority and whilst we know this news will be disappointing, we hope people can appreciate it is a step that we have taken in line with government advice to manage the coronavirus outbreak whilst maintaining important generation infrastructure.”
Gates will be closed at both side of the dam walkway.
SSE Renewables will continue to monitor the situation and in light of ongoing government advice may bring in further restrictions within the area around Pitlochry Hydro Power Station.
The walkway will reopen when it is considered safe to do so.
Pitlochry Hydro Power Station itself is running as normal, continuing to provide clean, renewable energy to help meet the UK’s energy needs.
Employees who work on site to carry out essential operations and maintenance at the power station, a key contributor to the GB electricity network, have been advised of new protocols in line with government advice on coronavirus to keep them safe and reduce transmission of the virus.