LDC Planning officers were recommending approval for the installation of a large battery storage system, ‘BESS’, on greenbelt land in Hammerwich. But the LDC planning committee meeting 30th June, were not convinced the development was sound.

Even though all the boxes were ticked to ‘downgrade’ the site from Greenbelt to the governments new Greybelt category, officers were not convinced that ‘exceptional circumstances’ quoted by Elgin, showed the site was suitable.

The potential environmental issues associated with such an installation were expressed. The proximity to Crane Brook and the M6Toll were an issue. Hammerwich residents and the M6Toll fear that a malfunction resulting in a Lithium Iron leak or fire, could close the M6toll and leak into Crane Brook, which would carry pollution int the local river course.

Representations were made by a local resident who was concerned the notorious Hammerwich narrow country lanes would not cope with heavy vehicle associated with the plant. The lane known as Lions Den is a narrow single track throughout its length.

This was supported by Councillor Serina Mears who was very concerned that the village of Hammerwich was not being considered appropriately.

Councillor Leona Leung made a formal objection on behalf of Hammerwich with Wall Ward, expressing her concern re noise pollution and access to the site should there be an emergency.

After lengthy debate, the Committee was split, and the Chairman exercised his prerogative to defer the application pending a site visit and review of several environmental concerns.

#greenbelt #batterystorage #hammerwich #communitysupport #wrongtimewrongplace