Representation by Theo Fotheringham
- Date submitted
- 11 September 2024
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
I support the principle of seeking to exploit sustainable ways to secure the future of UK based energy including the development of suitable land based solar parks. Any development must consider the impact on the local community, heritage assets, bio-diversity and visual amenity of the land. This development is huge and what has surprised me is that lack of credible consultation with the local community with open and transparent discussions to fully deal with any concerns raised. It has also surprised me that the development will be built on high quality farmland, at a time when food security for the UK is a key issue. The visual impact and concerns about biodiversity are obvious but I have just been made aware (again illustrating the lack on meaningful consultation) that the site will include 116 battery units, all with emergency mitigation including water towers, double access and egress for any responding fire service to avoid the dangerous chemicals that will be produced from any fire. I recall a number of incidents involving batteries in the news including the destruction of half of the parking capacity at Luton airport by the self ignition of an EV battery. This is a real concern. This application is too large, too destructive on the environment and community and just not safe. There hasn't been any meaningful consultation with the local community. I strongly object to this project.