Purpose

The report provides a progress
update to the Executive on Hook recreation Ground Solar Photovoltaic  (PV) Scheme which is a corporate priority.

 

It seeks approval and budget for
officers to prepare and submit a planning application which is the next stage
to progress the project.

 

Hook Recreation Ground is
designated as “Natural Green Space”.  The
site suffers from poor drainage and as a former capped landfill site, there are
few viable uses.  The current informal
use includes dog-walking and model flying.

 

The project started in 2022 with
a desk-top-based feasibility study by an external consultant, which identified
Hook Recreation Ground as being suitable for a solar PV development.  Extensive feasibility work has been carried
out since to better understand the implications.  This includes the Council investing in a grid
connection.

 

The report provides detail of the
likely carbon reporting and financial implications of the project.

 

For the project to proceed, a
planning application needs to be prepared and submitted.  This will include various surveys and assessments.  Given the current site designation, Local
Plan Policy NE10 is relevant.  A detailed
Open Space Assessment and community consultation will be necessary as part of
the planning process.

Decision

RESOLVED that the Executive
approves a budget of £110,000 to enable officers to proceed with preparation of
and submission of the planning application for the Hook Solar PV farm project.