Listen and Take Notice of Local Residents

The recent decision of Dorset Council to approve a Battery Energy Storage System in Chickerell went against the significant majority of the town's residents who had been vociferous in not wanting the BESS to be built within the town. Chickerell Town Council had also recommended rejection of the plan. Dorset Council's decision not only went against public opinion, but also showed no recognition of the work Chickerell Town Council had done in producing its own Neighbourhood Plan, which had sought to protect the land on which the BESS will now be built. The decision has angered Chickerell residents, many of whom are fearful as the BESS will be built so close to their homes. 

The voice of local residents is important and Dorset Council should pay greater recognition to local voices when making decisions that will have significant implications on a local population.