Issue - meetings

The Development Management Team Manager presented an update on battery energy storage systems (BESS), particularly in relation to the planning system. It was reported that, in November 2024, Full Council had considered a motion to lobby the government to make local fire and rescue services statutory consultees on planning applications. This was recommended but not mandatory. Since that time, letters had been issued to the then Secretary of State, the Chair of the Local Government Association, and all nine Greater Lincolnshire local planning authorities. A private Member’s Bill proposing such a measure was now before Parliament and was expected to have its next reading in spring.

Planning policy at both national and local level supported BESS developments in principle, as they were reported as seen as a way of balancing the energy network and contributing towards net zero targets for 2050. The government’s Clean Power Action Plan stated that 23 to 27 gigawatts of battery storage would be needed by 2030, compared to 4.5 gigawatts at the end of the previous year, representing a five-fold increase.

A significant rise in BESS applications had been reported nationally, including within West Lindsey, where two applications had been received. Both applications had been refused planning permission by the Planning Committee due to concerns about location, battery safety, fire risk, and potential water contamination when extinguishing fires. One refusal had been overturned on appeal in August 2025, with the Planning Inspector finding that the proposal met national and local policy. The Inspector had also concluded that the Council had acted unreasonably in refusing permission and awarded full costs to the appellant, which were expected to be a five-figure sum.

The Development Management Team Manager explained that the Council’s local validation list, which set out requirements for planning applications, was due for review by May next year. It was being proposed that the list include a requirement for a battery safety management plan addressing fire risk and water contamination concerns. National Fire Chiefs’ guidance recommended that sites hold two hours’ worth of water on site, and the Planning Committee’s concerns had related to how this water would be managed to prevent contamination. The paper proposed that future requirements aligned with the National Fire Chiefs Council’s guidance and any future updates. Additionally, it was being proposed that an online renewable energy search facility be developed to allow the public easier access to information on proposed developments.

The Chairman thanked the Development Management Team Manager for his presentation and invited Members to comment.

Members discussed the update on battery energy storage systems. A Member expressed appreciation for the report and noted that, while contact had been made with national Government and a private Member’s Bill was progressing, it would be worthwhile to continue lobbying to ensure the Bill was supported. The Member also highlighted the importance of raising the matter at relevant meetings of the Central Lincolnshire Plan Committee, given that the plan was now under review and the process could take two to three years. It  ...  view the full minutes text for item 26