Local residents appear poised to successfully block a major battery storage development on agricultural land following a recommendation from planning officials to reject the proposal. The 99MW battery energy storage system (BESS) planned for New House Farm on Luzlow Lane in Bagnall, Staffordshire Moorlands, has drawn opposition from almost 150 community members.
Planning officials at the District Council have advised against approving Root Power's application, determining the project constitutes "inappropriate development" that would transform agricultural land into an industrial facility. Root Power has defended the proposal by emphasizing the "urgent need" for energy storage infrastructure to facilitate renewable energy integration.
The battery facility is designed to advance renewable energy adoption by capturing excess power and delivering it back to the electrical grid during peak demand periods. The installation would feature 24 battery units, 12 transformers, a substation and additional infrastructure components, with connectivity to the Cellarhead substation.
Planning officials have raised questions about emergency access for fire services at the proposed location.
Local opposition has focused on potential fire hazards, environmental contamination and negative impacts on local wildlife habitats.
One neighboring resident expressed concerns, stating: "The toxic chemical smoke and fumes from a fire would directly affect my family. It would also impact on people using the common and driving through the area."
A second opponent described the location as "a haven for wildlife," noting: "The views across to the Roaches are stunning – high fencing and bright lights would ruin this area."
The proposal received backing from two supporters who emphasized possible environmental advantages and economic investment opportunities.
Planning officials ultimately determined that negative impacts exceeded potential benefits, stating: "While it is concluded that the land is 'grey belt' it does not satisfy all the criteria to be deemed not inappropriate. Therefore, the development is harmful by definition."
"The development would, in addition, compromise openness by replacing open fields with a development of industrial character and appearance."
The council's planning committee will make the final determination on the application in the coming week.
This report was compiled by the Local Democracy Reporting Service, which monitors municipal governments and public sector organizations.
