Micro energy storage facility at Verge at Fishguard Leisure Centre Car Park, Fishguard

What was proposed

The application sought permission for a Battery Box to store electricity and return it to the grid during periods of high demand.

“This application seeks planning permission for the siting of a micro energy storage facility, known as a Battery Box.”

“The proposed Battery Box would import electricity from the local electricity network when demand for electricity is low or when there are high levels of renewable energy available. It would then export that electricity back to the grid when required in periods of high demand.”

Officer report

The site

The site was open space beside a leisure centre car park and school, with access from two unclassified roads and pedestrian links.

“The application site is positioned on a parcel of open space adjacent to both Fishguard Leisure Centre car park and Ysgol Bro Gwaun.”

“The application site is accessed from two unclassified roads which connect with the A487. There are pedestrian links to the application site from both accesses via a footpath.”

Officer report

Officers recommended approval

Officers recommended approval with conditions covering implementation, approved plans, green infrastructure and biodiversity enhancement.

“It is recommended that the application be APPROVED subject to the following conditions:”

“Time period for implementation • Development in accordance with approved and amended plans • Implementation of green infrastructure/biodiversity enhancement ___________________________________________________________________”

Officer report

Residents’ concerns

Four third-party representations raised concerns about construction noise, visual impact, fire and child safety, construction access and safeguarding.

“Four third party representations have been received which can be summarised as follows: - Noise concerns during Construction - Visual impacts on neighbouring properties - Safety Concerns (Fire and Child Safety) - Access concerns during Construction - Safeguarding implications (School Pupils)”

Officer report

Who spoke

The applicant, an objector, a Town Council member and the [name withheld] addressed the Committee.

What members debated

Members debated the unit’s location, safety, fire risk, consultation, nearby homes and school, and whether a site visit was needed.

“The Chair then invited the Member of Fishguard Town Council to speak. Councillor Morgan outlined objections based on visual impact and potential noise, requesting clarity on noise levels at nearby properties. Fire risk was also raised, particularly concerning pupil safety at the adjacent school, though reassurances were noted. The Council queried whether any community benefits were proposed given the site’s proximity to the school.”

“Councillor Tony Wilcox stated that, while he acknowledged the merits of a site visit, he was minded to refuse the application based solely on its location. • Councillor Brian Hall proposed a site visit before determining the application, citing concerns about safety and legality if approved without further assessment. He suggested deferring the decision until Members had viewed the site and could reach an informed conclusion.”

Minutes

The vote

Members voted 9 to 4, with no abstentions, to support a motion for a site visit.

“Councillor Brian Hall Moved that a site visit be undertaken to enable the Committee to gain a clear understanding of the site; Seconded by Councillor Danny Young.”

“For the Motion: Councillors Steve Alderman, Mark Carter, Alec Cormack, John Davies, Tim Evans, Brian Hall, Simon Hancock, Nick Neumann and Danny Young [9]”

Minutes

The decision

The application was deferred so Members could undertake a site visit before reaching a decision.

“That the application be deferred to allow a site visit to be undertaken.”

Minutes