Hydrogen production facility at Land 2480M East Of Beinn Tharsuinn Windfarm, Edderton

“23/05242/FUL) (PLN/041/26) Location: Land 2480M East of Beinn Tharsuinn Windfarm, Edderton (Ward 04). Nature of Development: Erection of a hydrogen production and storage facility (Class 5 - General Industry), road haul tanker loading facility, underground PW electricity connection, import substation, access road upgrades, site offices, parking, gatehouse, fencing, temporary construction and laydown area, and ancillary infrastructure.”

“Since the committee papers had been written, owing to Planning Officers concerns regarding the proposed plant’s wastewater discharge location, and its proximity some 820m away from properties at the Aultnamain private water supply, the applicant had since confirmed in writing their acceptance to an additional planning condition which required, the developer to find a suitable alternative private water supply for properties at this location.”

“This would involve identifying an alternative water supply at an elevated location on the hillside above the plant and this being piped directly to serve properties at Aultnamain; thereby bypassing the plant’s water abstraction and discharge process.”

“The proposed development is considered contrary to policy 11 (e) (viii) and Policy 9 (b) of NPF4.”

“The proposed development would result in significant uncertainty regarding the long-term availability of groundwater resources given the abstraction of up to 300 cubic metres of water per day. Insufficient evidence has been provided to demonstrate that the proposal would avoid unacceptable impacts on existing private water supplies.”

“Amendment:- [name withheld], seconded by [name withheld] to GRANT Planning Permission subject to the conditions in the report.”

“There were 3 votes for the motion and 9 votes for the amendment, therefore the amendment was carried, votes being cast as follows:-”

“The Committee AGREED to GRANT Planning Permission subject to the conditions detailed in the report with delegated powers granted to officers to draft conditions in relation to the protection of the downstream water supply by the applicant to ensure the quality of the water supply for neighbouring residents at Aultnamain and in respect of Road Mitigation Works in consultation with the Chair and Vice Chair.”