The Planning Committee met and approved the construction of a new Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at Averham, despite concerns about its visual impact. The committee also approved a lawful development certificate for the conversion of a garage into a granny annex in Spalford. Finally, the committee discussed an application for a two-storey rear extension and outbuilding in Balderton but deferred making a decision.

Application 23/00317/FULM - Land East of Staythorpe Lane, Averham

The committee considered an application by Eon Energy for the construction of a new Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at Averham. Battery Energy Storage Systems are large batteries connected to the National Grid that allow energy suppliers to store energy generated at times when it is not needed, and release it at times of peak demand.

Councillor Johno Lee raised concerns about the visual impact of the development, noting that the site was clearly visible, in my opinion, from the road. Councillor Lee went on to say that he was very supportive of this type of development but felt that we've just got to make sure that we are mindful in terms of its location and how it impacts the environment .

The case officer, Mr Matt Lamb, reassured the committee that the visual impact of the development would be minimal, explaining that the applicant had committed to planting a large area of woodland to screen the development from view.

A vote was held, and the application was approved.

Application 24/00088/FUL - Shady Oaks, Eagle Road, Spalford

The committee considered an application for a lawful development certificate for the conversion of a garage into a granny annex in Spalford. The certificate was sought by Mr Simon Jinks.

There were no objections to the application, and the case officer, Mr Ben Parkin, recommended that it be approved.

A vote was held, and the application was approved.

Application 24/00407/FUL - 45 Butt Top, Balderton

The committee considered an application for a two-storey rear extension and outbuilding at 45 Butt Top, Balderton.

The application was presented to the committee by the case officer, Mr Andrew Green. Mr Green explained that the application had been called in to the planning committee due to concerns from Balderton Parish Council about the size and scale of the proposed extension, as well as the impact it would have on the character of the surrounding area.

In accordance with the council’s constitution, a statement was read to the meeting by the clerk on behalf of Balderton Parish Council. In their statement, the parish council argued that the proposed extension is not in keeping with the character of the street scene. They went on to say that we believe that the extension would have a detrimental impact on the amenity of neighbouring properties .

Councillor Henry Hobhouse, the ward member for Balderton, then addressed the committee. Councillor Hobhouse expressed his concern that the size of the proposed extension, particularly at first floor level, would represent an overdevelopment of the site that is harmful to the character of the host dwelling and the street scene.

Mr Green reminded the committee that the council’s planning policies allow “modest extensions to dwellings without planning permission”. He went on to explain that the applicant had provided amended plans, reducing the size of the proposed extension to address the concerns of the parish council. However, he noted that the applicant felt that the size of the extension, as originally proposed, was “acceptable and in keeping with the character of the area".

The applicant’s agent, Mr Ben Wells, then addressed the committee. Mr Wells argued that the proposed extension would provide much-needed living space for a growing family . He also pointed out that the extension would be built using materials that would match the existing dwelling, and that it would be screened from view by existing trees and shrubs.

Councillor Penny Rainbow proposed that the committee defer making a decision on the application to allow for a site visit. Councillor Rainbow argued that it was important for the committee to see the site for themselves before making a decision.

Councillor David Martin seconded the proposal, and it was carried. A site visit was scheduled for the following week, and the application will be reconsidered at a future meeting.