Concerns about fires, explosions and environmental damage have been raised over plans to build a new battery farm on land between Burton Joyce and Lambley.
The project would create a battery energy storage system (BESS) site on green fields at Burton Wood Farm, off Spring Lane which is located between the villages of Burton Joyce and Lambley.
A public meeting was held on Monday (27) with residents concerned about the safety of the site and potential environmental damage.
Alternative locations for the farm were also proposed, with land near Stoke Bardolph sewage farm or the sub station outside the village being suggested.
So far, both Burton Joyce and Lambley Parish Councils have objected to the proposals.
At the meeting it was revealed that more than 250 objections had also been submitted by members of the public to Gedling Borough Council.
Developer Grenergy said that fire safety would be at the ‘forefront of all considerations’ at the proposed site.
In a statement on their website they said: “BESS sites are under frequent scrutiny regarding fire safety, due to the large quantities of lithium-ion batteries in a confined space.”
In response to fears around noise pollution they said: “The batteries themselves produce very little noise, however, cooling fans are required to maintain the batteries at the correct temperature emit some noise. With any planning application a detailed noise assessment is completed to ensure the plant causes no detriment to local sound levels.”
BESS are being built across the UKÂ to help balance the electricity grid, which is becoming increasingly powered by renewables.
The systems hold electricity generated from renewable sources such as wind turbines and solar farms.
As well as residents from both evillages, the meeting was also attended by Gedling MP Michael Payne and Gedling Brough councillor Sam Smith, who represents Trent Valley.
Following the meeting, Gedling MP Michael Payne said: “I attended this evening’s public meeting to listen to the concerns of the residents I serve from Lambley, Burton Joyce and surrounding communities, who will be affected by this proposal.
“I have serious concerns regarding this planning application.
He added that he would be sharing his representations to Gedling Borough Council on Tuesday (28)
If approved Grenergy said construction would typically take nine months, would have an operational lifespan of 30 years before a decommissioning period of around 6 months, when the site would be returned to its previous use.Â
Gedling Borough Council will make a decision on the application shortly.
You can view the application HERE
Those who wish to object to the scheme can email calum.smith@gedling.gov.uk
