A Farr man has claimed that a planned high-voltage electricity cable which would run past his property could ruin his business.
William Forbes farms land at Milton of Farr, on the outskirts of the village, and runs a holiday cottage on the land.
However, he believes that revised plans to direct a 275kV power line and 150ft high pylons through the Milton of Farr area could mean the end of his business.
Scottish Hydro-Electric Transmission Ltd (Shetl) wants to install a new network of power lines between Knocknagael and Tomatin as an upgrade to the existing line south-west of Inverness.
The energy company recently revealed revised plans for the Farr area, which will involve the line taking two turns around the village.
Mr Forbes said that as well as affecting his own property, the line will cross a popular walking route at Milton Wood.
He said: “People in the village have suggested to SSE a suitable route for the line which will have a minimal impact on the village.
“SSE have come back however with a completely different route which will have the maximum possible effect on the whole area. They aren’t interested in listening or working with us.
“I believe it will be ruinous to my business to have a lengthy pylon line over the farmland and the holiday cottage.
“The only negative comment I have had about the cottage is about the existing smaller pylons, so I dread to think what people will make of the bigger one once it is in.”
There is already a line of pylons along the route proposed for the new one, carrying a 132kV line connection from the Farr windfarm to the national grid. A stretch of this line would be retained as part of the upgrade.
While the existing pylons are about 86ft tall, the structures on the new 275kV line would be much higher, at 152ft. The multimillion-pound development has attracted criticism because of the visual effect it will have on the scenic glen.
SHETL project manager Andrew McLaren said the changes to the layout of the line were made as a result of feedback from public consultations.
He said the revised route more closely mirrors the existing line, has less conflict with the public path network and enables the energy infrastructure to be kept to the east of the valley.
He said: “Comments are still welcome at this stage. The closing date for feedback is May 31.”