Residents hit out at plans to build electrical grid in Bishopton
The application insists that the development is "essential to meet the growing electricity demand in the area because of the development of the remaining residential plots and the new primary school being constructed in the village".
However, a number of residents from nearby estates have raised concerns about the project, with over 200 objections launched against the plans at the time of writing.
READ MORE: Mikaku in Glasgow city centre to close doors after seven years
Phillip Harvey is worried about the potential health and safety issues of living beside a substation (Image: Newsquest) Phillip Harvey, who lives with his family across from the proposed site, detailed what "worries" him about the plans.
He said: "As soon as this application went in and we opposed it after the initial shock, it was fenced off and could no longer be used by locals, despite the application still being under consideration.
"Everyone I have spoken to is absolutely scunnered, if I am honest.
"I have not been impressed with how SPEN or BAE Systems have conducted themselves during the process, both in terms of their communications and planning.
"The fact that no residents will be present for the site visit is also ridiculous.
"The application that SPEN submitted initially was deficient in many aspects, which the residents pointed out.
"SPEN were then giving the opportunity to submit further documents and eventually a revised application was submitted."
A consultation on the plans was held on March 28, with a site visit set to take place on Tuesday, August 19.
READ MORE: Meet the bakers behind Iranian bread inside Glasgow supermarket
Renfrewshire Council will make a final decision on the plans on August 26 and Phillip explained what concerns him most about the proposals.
He continued: "My children's room overlooks where SPEN are proposing to build this monstrosity.
"My neighbours have a number of health concerns and are worried what this will mean for them.
"Safety and noise pollution are two other things I worry about as well as health concerns.
"It would also be a real eyesore and it is sad we could potentially lose a green space.
"I understand the need for electricity, but there are so many other areas that could be on built on that BAE Systems owns."
SPEN have had the right to maintain the infrastructure of the land, which BAE Systems owns, since 2012.
Agnes O'Hara, another resident who lives in the same estate, also expressed similar concerns about the plans.
She said: "When we bought the house, we did it on the understanding that the area where the substation could be built now was to be a community woodland area.
"I also have concerns about the wildlife at the site, such as badgers and otters. We have been told that no animals will be a risk if the application goes ahead, but I have my doubts.
"I also have a mechanical heart valve and anything magnetic near me is not good.
"I know SPEN have made that clear that whatever is emitted from the site will not pose any risks but that is still a worry.
"I am also recovering from cancer and all this has done since it started is cause me distress.
"There is a human impact that some people don't see."
Renfrewshire Council say they are unable to comment on live planning applications.
READ MORE: New shop and cafe opens in area of Paisley
Councillor Colin McCulloch also echoed the residents' sentiments around the plans.
He said: "My objections are due to the fact that I fail to understand why this has to be built beside residential properties when the site is so built.
"It seems to be the easiest option rather than the option that works best for everyone.
"I think the majority of people who live beside the site would not have bought their houses if they knew it was going to be built."
Councillor James MacLaren added: "There are a number of things that are concerning about this.
"The site visit is coming up and I understand that residents are concerned that they are unable to be present during the visit when members of the Planning Board are there.
"I understand this might look a bit fishy, particularly if SPEN engineers are in attendance.
"My understanding is at these types of site visits, local residents and the applicants would be unable to say anything to the Planning Board members anyway.
"Residents do have a lot to be concerned about as they bought their houses not expecting something like this to be built beside their homes and now they could be having a substation."
A BAE Systems spokesperson said: "The new sub-station planning application, which is within the location of a former sub-station, was submitted by SPEN.
"All matters associated with the applications have been managed and co-ordinated by SPEN."
A spokesperson for SPEN said: "The planning application for a new substation on land owned by BAE Systems in Bishopton will be considered by Renfrewshire Council later this month and has been subject to extensive discussions with local representatives, which also included an offer to attend any community meetings that were organised.
"The substation is designed to meet increasing demand for electricity as a result of local developments and to ensure a reliable and resilient energy supply as more people make the switch to greener technologies like electric vehicles and heating.
"A detailed site selection process was carried out, which identified the proposed site location – previously home to an electrical substation – as the least impactful and fully compliant with all relevant regulations and guidance, based on the submitted design.
"It will also be subject to extensive screening and planting by BAE Systems, which goes above and beyond what was originally proposed in direct response to feedback from local representatives.
"We await the council's decision."
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Glasgow Times
2 days ago
- Glasgow Times
Residents hit out at plans to build electrical grid in Bishopton
The proposal, which was put forward by Scottish Power Energy Networks on January 30, would see the construction of a primary substation, with associated apparatus, fencing, de-mountable floodlights and an access track, on Glenluce Drive in Dargavel. The application insists that the development is "essential to meet the growing electricity demand in the area because of the development of the remaining residential plots and the new primary school being constructed in the village". However, a number of residents from nearby estates have raised concerns about the project, with over 200 objections launched against the plans at the time of writing. READ MORE: Mikaku in Glasgow city centre to close doors after seven years Phillip Harvey is worried about the potential health and safety issues of living beside a substation (Image: Newsquest) Phillip Harvey, who lives with his family across from the proposed site, detailed what "worries" him about the plans. He said: "As soon as this application went in and we opposed it after the initial shock, it was fenced off and could no longer be used by locals, despite the application still being under consideration. "Everyone I have spoken to is absolutely scunnered, if I am honest. "I have not been impressed with how SPEN or BAE Systems have conducted themselves during the process, both in terms of their communications and planning. "The fact that no residents will be present for the site visit is also ridiculous. "The application that SPEN submitted initially was deficient in many aspects, which the residents pointed out. "SPEN were then giving the opportunity to submit further documents and eventually a revised application was submitted." A consultation on the plans was held on March 28, with a site visit set to take place on Tuesday, August 19. READ MORE: Meet the bakers behind Iranian bread inside Glasgow supermarket Renfrewshire Council will make a final decision on the plans on August 26 and Phillip explained what concerns him most about the proposals. He continued: "My children's room overlooks where SPEN are proposing to build this monstrosity. "My neighbours have a number of health concerns and are worried what this will mean for them. "Safety and noise pollution are two other things I worry about as well as health concerns. "It would also be a real eyesore and it is sad we could potentially lose a green space. "I understand the need for electricity, but there are so many other areas that could be on built on that BAE Systems owns." SPEN have had the right to maintain the infrastructure of the land, which BAE Systems owns, since 2012. Agnes O'Hara, another resident who lives in the same estate, also expressed similar concerns about the plans. She said: "When we bought the house, we did it on the understanding that the area where the substation could be built now was to be a community woodland area. "I also have concerns about the wildlife at the site, such as badgers and otters. We have been told that no animals will be a risk if the application goes ahead, but I have my doubts. "I also have a mechanical heart valve and anything magnetic near me is not good. "I know SPEN have made that clear that whatever is emitted from the site will not pose any risks but that is still a worry. "I am also recovering from cancer and all this has done since it started is cause me distress. "There is a human impact that some people don't see." Renfrewshire Council say they are unable to comment on live planning applications. READ MORE: New shop and cafe opens in area of Paisley Councillor Colin McCulloch also echoed the residents' sentiments around the plans. He said: "My objections are due to the fact that I fail to understand why this has to be built beside residential properties when the site is so built. "It seems to be the easiest option rather than the option that works best for everyone. "I think the majority of people who live beside the site would not have bought their houses if they knew it was going to be built." Councillor James MacLaren added: "There are a number of things that are concerning about this. "The site visit is coming up and I understand that residents are concerned that they are unable to be present during the visit when members of the Planning Board are there. "I understand this might look a bit fishy, particularly if SPEN engineers are in attendance. "My understanding is at these types of site visits, local residents and the applicants would be unable to say anything to the Planning Board members anyway. "Residents do have a lot to be concerned about as they bought their houses not expecting something like this to be built beside their homes and now they could be having a substation." A BAE Systems spokesperson said: "The new sub-station planning application, which is within the location of a former sub-station, was submitted by SPEN. "All matters associated with the applications have been managed and co-ordinated by SPEN." A spokesperson for SPEN said: "The planning application for a new substation on land owned by BAE Systems in Bishopton will be considered by Renfrewshire Council later this month and has been subject to extensive discussions with local representatives, which also included an offer to attend any community meetings that were organised. "The substation is designed to meet increasing demand for electricity as a result of local developments and to ensure a reliable and resilient energy supply as more people make the switch to greener technologies like electric vehicles and heating. "A detailed site selection process was carried out, which identified the proposed site location – previously home to an electrical substation – as the least impactful and fully compliant with all relevant regulations and guidance, based on the submitted design. "It will also be subject to extensive screening and planting by BAE Systems, which goes above and beyond what was originally proposed in direct response to feedback from local representatives. "We await the council's decision."
The Guardian
11-07-2025
- The Guardian
Yasmin Khan's recipes for aubergine kuku and fruit and nut granola bars
I am obsessed with these sweet treats: soft, sticky, packed with dried fruit, nuts and seeds, and sweetened with banana and honey, these irresistible granola bars are perfect for when you're craving something sweet but still want something relatively healthy; they also work well as a light breakfast with a mug of hot tea or coffee. Kuku, meanwhile, is one of the bedrocks of Iranian cuisine, and is the Persian word for these dense, filled frittatas that are often served as a sandwich filling with sliced tomato and crunchy, salty pickles. These keep in an airtight container for about three days, and tend to go softer and chewier after 24 hours, so they are great for making ahead. I use a 16cm-square baking tin. Prep 5 min Cook 45 min Makes 6-8 bars 175g jumbo rolled oats 125g dried apricots, roughly chopped50g pistachios1 tbsp pumpkin seeds 1 tbsp sunflower seeds 1 tbsp sesame seeds 1 tbsp milled flax seeds 1 tsp ground cinnamon Salt 75g coconut oil, or butter65g soft dark brown sugar60g tahini3 tbsp honey, or maple syrup 1 ripe banana, peeled and mashed1 tsp vanilla extract Heat the oven to 180C (160C fan)/350F/gas 4, and line a small baking tin with greaseproof paper. Mix the oats, apricots, pistachios, pumpkin seeds, sunflower seeds, sesame seeds, flax seeds, cinnamon and a quarter-teaspoon of salt in a large bowl. Melt the coconut oil in a small saucepan on a low heat, then stir in the brown sugar until that, too, melts. Take off the heat and stir in the tahini, honey, mashed banana and vanilla, then stir the warm ingredients into the dry ingredients until well combined. Press the oat mixture into the lined tin, then bake for 30-35 minutes, until golden brown. Remove and leave to cool completely before slicing into bars. This uses aubergine, but courgette can easily be subbed in instead. It's packed with the classic Iranian ingredients of saffron, turmeric and barberries – small, sharp, dried berries that add a wonderful tang; source them in larger supermarkets, Middle Eastern grocers or online. Kukus can be eaten with a salad, as part of a picnic or meze, or stuffed into pockets of pitta for a snack. Prep 10 min Cook 50 min Serves 4 3 medium aubergines, peeled and cut into 3cm pieces Vegetable oil Salt 1 pinch saffron strands 1 pinch sugar 1 medium onion, peeled and chopped1 fat garlic clove, peeled and crushed6 large eggs½ tsp ground turmeric ½ tsp ground cumin 1 tbsp plain flour 1 tsp lemon juice 2 tbsp barberries 1 large handful coriander leaves, finely chopped Heat the oven to 200C (180C fan)/390F/gas 6. Spread the aubergines on a large baking sheet, drizzle with three tablespoons of oil, sprinkle with a teaspoon of salt and toss to coat. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes, or until completely soft, then remove and leave to cool. Meanwhile, grind the saffron and sugar in a mortar, add a tablespoon of just-boiled water and leave to steep for five minutes. Put two tablespoons of oil in a medium oven-safe pan on a medium heat. Once it's hot, add the onion and cook, stirring, for 15 minutes, or until soft and brown. Add the garlic, cook for two minutes more, then tip into a bowl and leave to cool. In a large bowl, whisk the eggs, saffron mixture, turmeric, cumin, flour, lemon juice and a half-teaspoon of salt, then fold in the barberries, coriander, roast aubergine pieces and fried onion. Pour two tablespoons of oil into the same pan on a medium heat. Tip in the kuku mixture, cover and cook for eight to 10 minutes, until just cooked through. You want it mostly set and puffing up a bit at the sides. Turn on the grill, then finish off the kuku under the grill until it is set and golden brown on top. Leave to cool to room temperature, then slice into thick triangles to serve. These recipes are edited extracts from Sabzi: Fresh Vegetarian Recipes for Every Day, by Yasmin Khan, published by Bloomsbury Publishing at £26. To order a copy for £23.40, go to
Scottish Sun
06-07-2025
- Scottish Sun
Inside Israel's frontline rescue crew… from pulling families out of rubble to dodging Iranian missiles
Rescue crews in Be'er Sheva dealt with the fallout of Iranian strikes on civilian areas - including a hospital LINE OF FIRE Inside Israel's frontline rescue crew… from pulling families out of rubble to dodging Iranian missiles Click to share on X/Twitter (Opens in new window) Click to share on Facebook (Opens in new window) IT'S the dead of night when Captain Yehudit's phone suddenly starts ringing. On her way home from the day job, the reservist's battalion commander warns her Iranian missiles are incoming. Sign up for Scottish Sun newsletter Sign up 13 Rescue crews at the scene in Be'er Sheva Credit: IDF 13 The team worked to help civilians whose buildings were hit by Iranian strikes Credit: IDF 13 Captain Yehudit of Battalion 923 - part of the Home Front Command's Southern District Credit: IDF 13 A view of the destruction after an Iranian missile hit Soroka Credit: Getty 13 Firefighters work in a building of the Soroka hospital complex after it was hit by a missile fired from Iran Credit: AP Defended by arguably one of the most technologically magnificent missile shields in the world, incoming rockets are largely shot down by quick-thinking soldiers. But no system can ever be perfect - and a very small percentage of barrages crash, leaving a trail of destruction in their wake. Within hours, the mum found herself pulling bodies out of the wreckage after Iranian missiles blitzed civilian homes in Be'er Sheva. She was joined at the devastating scene by Major Neta and rescue forces of Battalion 923 - part of the Home Front Command's Southern District - who worked tirelessly for the next 13 hours to help panicked citizens. It was the first of three blitzes on the southern Israel city during the so-called 12-day war, including one just hours before the ceasefire kicked in. Furious Iran traded blows with Israel for days after Benjamin Netanyahu unleashed an audacious blitz on the regime's prized nuclear sites. Homes and even a hospital were blasted in Be'er Sheva in return by Iran - leaving at least four killed and dozens injured. Israel Defence Forces (IDF) reservist Maj. Neta told The Sun: "We didn't suspect [Iran would hit civilian areas], that was a surprise for us. "We only hit military targets and they hit a civilian hospital - it was awful. "We are here to save lives, and they are just trying to hurt us." West now on red alert for 'homegrown terror attacks' as Iran calls for Trump to be 'crucified' In the early hours of July 19, Soroka hospital was among eight sites pounded by missiles in what was branded an "act of terrorism" by Israel's health minister Uriel Buso. Terrified patients were evacuated as ceilings collapsed, windows smashed and walls caved in. Maj. Neta said: "There was a lot of mess, a lot of innocent people that we needed to move because it was dangerous. We had a fire there and a lot of wreckage. "Luckily nobody was killed there, but easily could have been. "There were people we had to pull out the wreckage, but I'm happy it ended up with only the building damaged but no souls lost. Shocking footage showed the ground shale and huge plumes of smoke filled the air as the busy hospital was struck. "There was a lot of mess, a lot of innocent people that we needed to move because it was dangerous," Maj. Neta said. "We had a fire there and a lot of wreckage. "Luckily nobody was killed there, but easily could have been. "There were people we had to pull out of the wreckage, but I'm happy it ended up with only the building damaged with no souls lost." 13 The Battalion 923 squad assess the damage in a building Credit: IDF 13 They work for hours at every scene to check for casualties Credit: IDF 13 Damage to a room at Soroka hospital Credit: EPA 13 The moment a bulding burst into flames after the struck by an Iranian rocket Credit: Jay Sverdlov But when a salvo of missiles slammed into more civilian targets days later - just hours before the ceasefire came into force on July 24. Corporal Eitan Zachs, 18, his mother, Michal Zachs, 50, his girlfriend Noa Boguslavsky, 18, from Arad, and Naomi Shaanan were killed. At least 22 others were injured as the rockets hit the area at around 6am - including one that directly pummeled a residential building. Cpt. Yehudit said: "Those first moments are a really big mess. People are in shock, there are many rescue teams in the zone. "We had to take the bodies of killed civilians from the apartments that got hit. "We had to break the bricks and the doors down to get them out. We also had a lot of civilians who got hurt. "[After dealing with casualties] we then check every building four times to make sure there is nobody in there, even pets. "From one building we rescued four cats, and returned them to their owners. Iran exacts revenge on its own people by Katie Davis, Chief Foreign Reporter (Digital) IRAN'S ruthless regime massacred defenceless inmates at a prison before blaming their deaths on shrapnel from airstrikes, insiders revealed. It comes as sources warn the wounded regime is using the smokescreen of conflict to unleash a brutal execution spree and crack down on critics. Cold-blooded regime dictators have also ordered the arrest of hundreds after accusing them of having links to arch-foe Israel. Iran's intelligence services detained at least 26 people accusing them of collaborating with the enemy - and three prisoners were hanged for allegedly spying for Israel. Iranian insiders told The Sun supreme leader Ali Khamenei is following a "disturbing pattern" of enforcing bloody clampdowns during periods of unrest. It comes as the chorus of voices calling for the Ayatollah's callous regime to be toppled grows louder following a monumental effort from Israel and the US to blitz critical nuclear sites. An Iranian insider said: "The prison massacre now stands as another stain on Tehran's human rights record - and a sobering reminder of what unchecked tyranny can unleash behind closed walls." READ MORE HERE "It's hard work. It takes a lot of time. In my zone, we took nearly 13 hours to make sure nobody was there until we could leave the scene." Maj. Neta said their response after a missile strike can take hours - and squads will even do checks on apartments for casualties even if just a window is broken. She added: "There was a lot of panic and confusion but they [civilians] were happy to see us. "It is a relief for them to see soldiers coming to rescue them and help them. "After that there's a lot of rage, because they need a lot of stuff from their house, and the building is not safe. "We have engineers that check the buildings before we allow civilians inside." Both Maj. Neta and Capt. Yehudit agreed they have to detach from their emotions to get their jobs done effectively. Capt Yehudit said: "The last hit that we dealt with was just before the ceasefire. 13 The moment of an Iranian missile strike in Be'er Sheva Credit: Jay Sverdlov 13 The team being briefed at the scene Credit: IDF 13 Cpt. Yehudit with her team members Credit: IDF "So at the end of the day, everybody spoke about how it was the ceasefire and we could go home in a couple of days. "It wasn't less hard dealing with the scene, knowing that just a few hours ago I pulled bodies from this now I'm going home, back to my day job, to my family and my daughter." Maj. Neta added: "We have to detach when we are getting to a scene because we cannot do our job if we are not detached. "But then after we speak to one another and we take everything out. "It's very important to speak about it and not keep it inside." Israel and Iran have been locked in a fragile ceasefire since June 24 - which Donald Trump has warned both sides not to break. It comes after days of missile fire between the two nations before Trump pulled the trigger on a monumental US blitz of the rogue state. Israel's rescue teams fear Iran could launch further strikes - but insist they are prepared. Maj. Neta added: "We don't know if Iran will strike again. [If they do], we will come and do our job, as we did this time. "But I hope very, very much they will not do it because we are only innocent people. "It's very difficult for us to lose a life. They don't care about that."
