Plans unveiled to raise height of historic waterway connecting Caledonian Canal to Loch Ness

Plans to upgrade a historic section of waterway that joins the Caledonian Canal and Loch Ness have gone on show in the Highlands.

Energy company Statera wants to raise the height of the Ness Weir, which was created two centuries ago by legendary Scots engineer Thomas Telford.

But opponents say there’s no need and it would impact upon wildlife.

The man-made stretch of waterway at the Ness Weir was created more than 200 years ago to ensure levels are high enough for boats to pass between the Caledonian Canal and Loch Ness.

Statera say climate change is impacting water flows in summer and winter and want to raise the level of the weir.

The company is due to lodge plans for a pump storage hydro scheme on Loch Ness but say a modernised weir would benefit all users.

David Rodgerson from Statera Energy told STV News: “We truly believe the weir is being impacted by climate change, so you are seeing all the negative effects of both low and high water levels.

“We think this is an investment in the future of Loch Ness and all the stakeholders who rely on it. It is something that can benefit not just the hydro schemes, who will see this as an improvement in terms of management of water levels, but a benefit for anyone who wants to come and enjoy Loch Ness for many years to come.”

A series of public consultations are under way to gather views on the plans. Some of users of the Ness say the proposals are unnecessary and would impact upon wildlife.

Brian Shaw of the Ness District Salmon Fishery Board said: “They are citing climate change issues but we don’t agree with that.

“This weir was built in the 1840s with one job in mind, to regulate the level of Loch Ness to ensure the safe navigation of vessels through the Caledonian Canal. This weir still serves that function now. There is simply no need to manipulate flows for that purpose.”

The developers say they want to work with local communities to gauge views and are looking at measures that would futureproof the Loch and Canal for many years.