Almost 70 per cent of Lochaber residents want mains gas in the area. Gas distribution company SGN worked with Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE), Highland Council and Explain Market Research to engage with more than 600 people and businesses through surveys and discussion groups. The results of the research mean a feasibility study will be carried out by summer 2019.
The timing of the study was driven by the future opening of a new manufacturing plant, Liberty British Aluminium, in Lochaber. While no final decision has been made on whether gas will come to Fort William, the research will inform any future decisions. The study, conducted between April and July, found 68 per cent of respondents in favour of a mains gas supply. Twenty per cent said they were against the idea and 12 per cent of respondents said they were not sure.
Some residents expressed concerns about the idea, including the level of disruption during installation work and environmental concerns. However, many respondents identiThed benefits of a gas supply to the area including reduced energy costs, greater value for money and improved reliability.