SSEN Transmission is to close South College Street in Aberdeen from Monday 7 September to enable essential works required to complete a major underground electricity cable replacement project.
The project to replace decades-old infrastructure connecting Redmoss and Clayhills substations is a major investment in Aberdeen's electricity network and will help maintain a secure and reliable electricity supply for the city.
During cable installation works, engineers identified water entering part of the underground duct system, preventing installation of the remaining section of cable.
To resolve the issue, excavation works will continue from the current worksite at the junction of Millburn Street and South College Street towards Clayhills substation. The works will be completed in sections, with affected areas reinstated following replacement and testing of the ducting.
To allow the works to be carried out safely, South College Street will be closed between Riverside Roundabout and the junction with Wellington Place from Monday 7 September 2026. The closure is currently scheduled to remain in place until 18 December, however the end date remains subject to change depending on unforeseen delays or adverse weather.
Access for residents and businesses will be maintained via Palmerston Place, subject to height restrictions, and clearly signed diversion routes will be in place throughout the closure period.
Hannah Fergie, Project Manager at SSEN Transmission, said: "We recognise that traffic restrictions have been in place in this area for some time and appreciate the patience shown by residents, businesses and road users.
"During the final stage of this major cable replacement project, we identified water entering part of the underground duct system, which must be addressed before the final section of cable can be installed.
"Unfortunately, because of the location of the affected ducting, a full closure of South College Street is required to allow repairs to be carried out safely. We will do everything possible to reopen the road at the earliest opportunity, circumstances permitting.
"Once completed, this project will help maintain a secure and reliable electricity supply for Aberdeen for decades to come. We will continue to keep the community informed as work progresses, while working closely with Aberdeen City Council and our contractor, Balfour Beatty, to minimise disruption as far as possible.”