Battery Energy Storage Systems

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, many of whom 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.

Whilst it can not be argued that alternative sources of power must be found for the benefit of future generations and to protect the environment, these should be built on appropriate sites, that do not have significant impact  on local residents; Dorset Council can not just ignore local plans that have been produced in consultation with local residents to further its own agenda. Local voices matter! 

In developing its own Plans, Dorset Council must recognise the extensive work local towns and parishes have done in producing their own plans, rather than bulldozing their way through them. In addressing the climate crisis, Dorset Council should identify appropriate sites for BESS's to be sited, rather than accept applications from Companies who are looking for sites which will readily feed into the National Grid thus maximising their profits, at the expense of wildlife corridors and totally ignoring the voice of local people.