CPRE Derbyshire objects to battery storage site at Calow

CPRE Derbyshire has strongly opposed the planning application for a 99MW battery storage energy system (BESS) and associated infrastructure at Calow in the north east of Derbyshire.

CPRE Derbyshire seeks to protect the countryside from the detrimental impact of inappropriate development and enhance it for current and future generations.

We are committed to supporting renewable energy installations but will always oppose harmful developments.  You can read our renewables policy statement here.

Having visited the site and walked the surrounding country lanes and footpaths, we are extremely concerned that this large development would have an unacceptably adverse impact on the landscape and on people’s ability to enjoy the countryside in its vicinity.  Calow already has a number of energy-related installations in the area but this does not mean another is more acceptable.  On the contrary, we believe the planners should be taking account of the cumulative impact of adding yet more industrialisation into this rural greenfield location.

A decision on this application for planning permission is expected later in 2023.

Our full response to this application can be viewed here.