Plans for battery storage site between Nitshill and Barrhead facing objections

Plans for a battery storage site between Nitshill and Barrhead are facing 26 objections.

A planning application has been submitted to Glasgow City Council to erect the development in a field in the Greater Pollok area.

Proposals include 12 containers housing the energy storage systems located on 9.5 acres of designated greenbelt land.

The development would be surrounded by a 1.8 metre perimeter fence and include infrastructure located in a compound, security lighting and CCTV.

Concerns over health and safety, fire risk, negative impact on wildlife, light pollution and loss of greenspace have been put forward by residents.

A design statement submitted on behalf of the applicant, said: “The proposed development would allow electricity from the national grid to be stored in batteries at times of low demand and then exported back to the grid at times of high demand.

“This will assist in ensuring a resilient grid, providing a more reliable supply of energy to users.”

It added: “The UK is legally bound through the Climate Change Act (2008) to reduce carbon emissions and increase electricity consumption from renewable resources. Energy storage facilities, such as the development, will play an important role in achieving this.”

The system would store up to 24mw of energy.

A total of 26 objections have been received against the bid from applicant GPC 1184 Ltd for the Parkhouse Road site.

Ashley McKee said: “I am concerned that this site would devalue properties in the area. I am also concerned about the negative impact this would have on wildlife. There are more suitable spaces in Glasgow that this facility could be placed. A residential area isn’t the place for this.”

Edward Leung said: “Something like a battery energy storage facility is out of place beside a residential area and country park, and will constitute an eyesore. Simple screening won’t be effective as the homes are in an elevated position over the battery site.

He added: “I worry about what happens if there is a malfunction at the battery site which could lead to large explosions/fires/chemical leaks so close to a residential area.”