Pitlochry Dam

Pitlochry Power Station and Dam
©2022 Gazetteer for Scotland

Pitlochry Power Station and Dam

Pitlochry Dam represents the termination of the Tummel Hydro-Electric Power Scheme, retaining Loch Faskally behind a 145-m (475-feet) long concrete wall, which is 16.5m (54 feet) in height. Constructed 1947-51 to provide a 15-m (50-feet) head of water for Pitlochry Power Station, it also smooths the flow coming from other generating stations further upstream. The dam incorporates two floating drum gates, which rotate automatically allowing excess water to spill over the dam and maintain an almost constant level in the reservoir. Designed and built by Glenfield and Kennedy of Kilmarnock, these were the first of their type installed in Britain. Refurbished in 1998, each gate is 27.5m (90 feet) in length and weighs 157 tonnes. Similar gates were installed at the Clunie Dam to the northwest.

Tourists can walk across the dam via a semi-enclosed walkway towards Pitlochry Power Station which is integrated within the southern section of the dam. Beyond is the Pitlochry Fish Ladder, which allows migrating salmon to cross the dam. All of these structures are now both A-listed.


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