9 Jul 2026
Tomorrow (10 July) is the closing date for the public consultation on the proposed substation at Threepwood Moss.
Don’t miss this opportunity to respond directly to energy giant Scottish Power Energy Networks (SPEN).
Lauderdale Preservation Group and locals living close to the site are appalled by the incorrect and partial information circulated by SPEN, seemingly designed to mislead the public.
There will be six overhead lines converging at the substation, but SPEN publicity materials only show two. These will stretch right across the historic Lauder Common, gifted to the people by William the Lion in the 12th century and the largest remaining area of common land in Scotland. The substation and overhead lines will scar the landscape of Lauder.
The power lines are needed to transport energy to where it is most needed – in England, not in Scotland, where our energy supply already exceeds all demand, from both businesses and households.
Originally known as Threepwood Moss substation, later rebranded as ‘Gala North’, it is clear that some people believe the site is in Galashiels.
The substation is in fact proposed for a site adjacent to Threepwood Moss, the most important raised bog habitat in Southern Scotland. The Moss is both a European Special Area of Conservation and a UK Site of Special Scientific Interest for its rare plants, butterflies and moths.
The substation would be a connection point for wind, solar and battery energy storage sites up to ten miles away, facilitating further industrialisation of the countryside. These are likely to include: Glenburnie, Longmuir, Greystone Knowe, Torfichen, Scawd Law, Woodhead solar farm and the re-powering of Dun Law wind farm.
Respond to the consultation and let SPEN know your concerns here:
https://www.spenergynetworks.co.uk/pages/gala_north_have_your_say.aspx