A survey of Fort William residents has revealed 68 per cent of those canvassed are in favour of mains gas coming to the town.
Explain Market Research was commissioned by gas distribution company SGN to ask residents and businesses about a gas network in Fort William. The study was conducted between April and July to find out if there is demand for a gas network to be brought to the area. A number of perceived benefits from a mains gas supply were raised during the research which included improved choice of energy supply and provider, reduced energy costs and greater value for money. Economic aspects were also considered.
While the majority of respondents welcomed the idea of mains gas, 20 per cent said they were against the idea and 12 per cent said they were not sure if they support the provision. As this was an exploratory study, no decision has yet been made as to whether a mains gas network will be installed in Fort William. The timing of the study was driven by the future opening of the new alloy wheels plant by Liberty British Aluminium. A feasibility study will now be carried out by summer 2019.