25MW solar farm at Land South Of Dougliehill Road And East Of B788, Port Glasgow

“The solar array consists of 602 solar panel frames mounted approximately 3m above ground at approximate spacing distances of 3.6m (between panels). A typical angle of repose would be 25 degrees. The orientation is generally south facing for maximum performance. The panel construction includes glass, silicon and a backing material together with electrical components. A further layer of non-reflective material is included to reduce the effects of reflection.”

“Access to the site would be from Dougliehill Road with additional access via the existing Inverclyde wind farm track which runs southwest to northeast from the Devol substation to Port Glasgow. The junction with Dougliehill Road proposed a 4-5m carriageway and an 11m radius. Secondary access would be available for emergency services.”

“The 70.19 Ha application site consists of grazing and moor land approximately 0.5km to the south of Port Glasgow, 1.5km southeast of Greenock with Kilmacolm 4km to the southeast. Access is achieved via two routes: the existing Dougliehill Road and the Inverclyde Wind Farm access (east). The surrounding moorland contains occasional residential properties, agricultural holdings and rural businesses.”

“The site can be described as urban fringe or semi-rural and is designated as Green Belt in the Local Development Plan. The site is adjacent to the Clyde Muirshiel Regional Park and is within Devol Local Nature Conservation Site (LNCS).”

“However, support for renewable energy development is not unconditional and proposals must also accord with other relevant policies of the Development Plan. In this instance, the application site occupies a particularly sensitive location within the Green Belt at the interface between Port Glasgow and the wider countryside. The site forms an important part of the landscape setting of the settlement and contributes to the open and scenic character of the Green Belt.”

“The proposed solar array, due to its large scale, extensive coverage and industrial appearance, fails to accord with Policy 8 (a) (ii) of National Planning Framework 4 as the purposes of the Green Belt are undermined; the proposal is not compatible with landscape character; the proposal is not designed to minimise visual impact on the Green Belt and the development would result in long term negative impacts on the environmental quality of the Green Belt.”

“The application was advertised in the Greenock Telegraph on 10th July 2026 as there are no premises on neighbouring land.”

“PUBLIC PARTICIPATION The application was the subject of neighbour notification; one representation was received (support) which is summarised below: The Inverclyde Chamber of Commerce supports the proposal as it states that the development strengthens the local economy, creates employment opportunities and encourage sustainable economic growth.”

“The Chair adjourned the meeting at 3:14pm in order for suggested conditions related to matters referenced in the report, which were distributed at the meeting, to be read by Elected Members. The meeting reconvened at 3:24pm.”

“After discussion Councillor McCabe moved that planning permission be granted subject to the suggested conditions distributed at the meeting.”

“PLANNING BOARD – 2 SEPTEMBER 2026 _______________________________________________________________________”

“Following a roll call vote, 2 Members, Councillors Brooks and McVey voted in favour of the amendment and 4 Members, Provost McKenzie, Councillors Crowther, Curley and McCabe voted in favour of the motion which was declared carried.”