Campaigners outraged as battery site approved

Controversial plans for a battery storage facility in Walsall initially refused by councillors have been given the green light after an appeal, outraging campaigners.

Walsall Council cited fire safety risks, loss of green belt land, noise and industrial appearance as reason to refuse the proposal in Great Barr.

But a government planning inspector has ruled it can be built on land off Chapel Lane, a site within the historic core of the Great Barr Conservation Area.

Campaigners said they were "appalled" by the decision, which stated the "benefits clearly outweigh the harm to the green belt".

More than a dozen speakers expressed concerns about the proposal for the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) by developer Ansesco at a public inquiry last year.

But planning inspector George Baird said in his ruling that he found no evidence traffic vibrations could result in significant damage to buildings and there was nothing to suggest the proposal would have an adverse impact on wildlife

It was also found the development would result in a "low level of less than substantial harm" to the significance of the conservation area, and the facility was not considered as inappropriate development in the green belt.

Chairman of the Beacon Action Group Bob Winkle questioned how such a development could be allowed.

"It came as a bombshell decision to me," he said.

Listening to all evidence at the inquiry, he said it was clear the council provided clear and robust reasons for its stance on refusing the plans, whereas the opposition presented a weaker case.

"We are outraged by this decision and extremely concerned for the future of our green and precious land," he added.

"On behalf of residents who will live by this plant, we are currently talking to Walsall Council members and officers to ascertain how this came about, and see what actions can be taken by them, but understand this has presented a difficult case for them."

A spokesperson from Anesco said the sites were needed amid the push towards clean energy and more affordable, renewable sources.

This news was gathered by the Local Democracy Reporting Service which covers councils and other public service organisations.

Follow BBC Birmingham on BBC Sounds, Facebook, X and Instagram.