OREANDA-NEWS. August 19, 2015.  The Tummel-Garry hydro scheme, of which Pitlochry dam and power station are a part, marked a huge change for the rural community of Perthshire.

It proved to be controversial and sparked much debate – and protest – in the local community.

The plans were debated by MPs in Parliament before a public inquiry paved the way for work to begin. Construction at Pitlochry Dam started in April 1947, with the first concrete block laid by the Countess of Airlie.

Building work was to continue for the next four years, however the site endured annual flooding – leading to delays in the project.

Part of the challenge faced by engineers was that the dam was built directly in the existing river and required a system of coffer dams to control the spread and flow of water through the site.

Subsequent flooding would considerably damage construction work and cause delays, but in 1951 the dam, power station and fish ladder were complete.

A memorial ceremony for Sir Edward MacColl, the pioneer behind the scheme, was held instead of the planned grand opening following his sudden death.