Hydro-electric pole raising ceremony, Morar

Hydro-electric pole raising ceremony, Morar

ID: GB232_RAMSAY_D893_1_10_023 DESCRIPTION: In May 1946 the North of Scotland Hydro-Electric Board held pole raising ceremonies in Morar and Lochalsh to mark the beginning of construction of the hydro-electric schemes in these areas. In Morar, the invited guest asked to assist with the ceremony was Lady Hermione Cameron of Locheil. This photograph shows Lady Cameron receiving a gift from Edward MacColl, Vice Chairman and Chief Executive of the Board. Standing behind to the right, holding a piece of paper, is Tom Johnston. The North of Scotland Hydro-Electric Board was established under the Hydro-Electric Development (Scotland) Act 1943. Thomas Johnston presented the Act in the House of Commons, declaring that by harnessing 'the great latent power of the region' it would assist in remedying the ills that affected the Highlands. Johnston told the Commons that 'industries, whether owned nationally or privately, will be and ought to be, attracted to locations in the Highlands, as a result of this measure'. Ordinary consumers would have priority, then the anticipated large power users, and any surplus energy would be sold to the national grid. Profits from these sales would help reduce distribution costs to more remote areas, and assist in carrying out measures for the economic development and social improvement of the Highlands. This famous social clause gave recognition that the Hydro Board was envisaged as an instrument for the rehabilitation of northern Scotland, not just an organization to provide electricity. The output from the power station at Loch Sloy, west of Loch Lomond, was intended to meet the demand for central and western Scotland. The surplus energy produced here would be used to subsidise the Morar and Lochalsh projects, it being unlikely these smaller schemes could pay their way. The cost of construction of these three projects was estimated at £4,600,000 This image can be purchased. For further information about purchasing and prices please email Skye and Lochalsh Archives PLACENAME: Morar DISTRICT: Lochaber OLD COUNTY/PARISH: INVERNESS: Glenelg DATE OF IMAGE: May 1946 PERIOD: 1940s SOURCE: Skye and Lochalsh Archive Centre COLLECTION: William J Ramsay Archive Asset ID: 8922 KEYWORDS: