Project Overview
Knuzden BESS will provide vital grid-balancing services, storing renewable electricity and supplying fast-response power to the local and national electricity network.
The site is well suited for this type of development: it is located on disused land occupied by existing overhead power lines and is situated near the motorway, limiting its suitability for other uses. A comprehensive landscape plan and existing mature vegetation will ensure that the development is well screened from surrounding areas.
PRE APPLICATION
Knuzden was refused at committee, against the officer’s recommendation for approval.
The project was recommended for approval by planning officers, with no outstanding objections from statutory consultees. However, it was refused at committee on grounds of inappropriate development in the Green Belt, alongside concerns about potential fire safety risk and proximity to a proposed (but not yet approved) neighbouring nature reserve.
We have since submitted an appeal to the Planning Inspectorate, supported by detailed evidence demonstrating:
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No objection from the local Fire and Rescue Service
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Extensive screening and landscape measures to mitigate visual impact
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Positive contribution to local ecology that would support and enhance the neighbouring nature reserve
A new site access has been created to ensure safe entry for emergency services and maintenance vehicles.
- Capacity: 60MW
- Storage: 120MWh
- Homes Powered: 120,000
- Energisation Date: Early-2027
Environmental and ecological benefits
Knuzden BESS will deliver measurable environmental benefits, including:
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10% net gain in habitat units
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14% net gain in watercourse units
The project’s landscape and ecology strategy will diversify habitats and strengthen local biodiversity, complementing the proposed nature reserve and enhancing the wider ecological network.
Existing mature vegetation and new planting will provide extensive visual screening, minimising any landscape impact.
Timeline and next steps
Following the submission of our appeal, we remain fully engaged with the planning process and local stakeholders. Subject to a successful appeal outcome, construction and grid connection works would proceed to bring Knuzden BESS into operation, contributing to national and local net zero targets.
Knuzden BESS represents a carefully designed and environmentally responsible development that will deliver significant energy system benefits with minimal impact on its surroundings.