Battery Storage Plans Rejected Over Fire Risk

Proposals for a significant battery energy storage system (BESS) near Axminster have been formally rejected after an appeal by the developer was dismissed. The plans, initially refused by East Devon District Council, were for land near Raymond's Hill. Sky UK Development appealed this decision, suggesting changes to address concerns about groundwater contamination and the risk of fires within the battery units.

However, inspector RC Kirby stated that the proposed mitigation measures would not be effective in achieving an acceptable balance between harm and benefit. The inspector concluded the proposal was unsuitable for its location. A primary concern raised was the potential impact of water used to extinguish a fire at the BESS, and the risk of this water contaminating a nearby local waterway. The appellant's claim that such water would take approximately eight years to reach drinking water sources was deemed to lack sufficient evidence.

Revised plans presented during the appeal included increased water tank sizes and altered spacing between units. Despite these changes, the inspector found that while the scheme's benefits might outweigh moderate harm to the Dorset National Landscape, they were insufficient to counter the substantial and unacceptable risks to the water environment. This decision was a significant relief to local campaign groups like the Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) and the Hawkchurch and Monkton Wyld Action Group, who have long highlighted risks from hazardous materials.