Appeal Withdrawn for Penketh Battery Energy Storage Scheme
An appeal against the refusal of planning permission for a battery energy storage scheme in Penketh has been withdrawn, leaving the project's future uncertain.
By Chester Standard
An appeal against the refusal to grant planning permission for a battery energy storage scheme in Penketh has been withdrawn. In December, Warrington Borough Council rejected plans for the installation of a battery energy storage system (BESS) on two large fields within the green belt south of Station Road in Penketh for a 30-year term.
The proposal, submitted by Net Zero One Ltd, aimed to secure approval for associated infrastructure, including security fencing, CCTV cameras, landscaping, water tanks, and measures for on-site biodiversity net gain. The BESS was intended to support the National Grid by storing energy generated from renewable sources, such as solar and wind, during periods of high production and low demand, allowing it to be used when production is low but demand is high.
However, the project, referred to as Eight Towers BESS due to its proximity to the eight cooling towers of the nearby Fiddler’s Ferry power station, faced significant opposition from local residents. They expressed concerns that the scheme would negatively impact the area for years and highlighted issues related to the loss of green belt land and potential effects on local highways.
Council planners agreed with the residents' concerns, stating that the proposal constituted ‘inappropriate development in the green belt’. Following the council's decision, Net Zero One Ltd submitted an appeal but has now withdrawn it, leaving the future of the proposal uncertain.
Penketh Parish Council confirmed that the planning appeal has been withdrawn by the developer. They noted that the original planning application was refused by Warrington Borough Council in December 2025. The developer had attempted to submit substantial amendments and additional technical information during the appeal process, but the council objected, stating that the proposed changes fundamentally altered the scheme and had not undergone proper public consultation. The Planning Inspector agreed that these amendments could not be considered as part of the existing appeal, leading to the withdrawal.
It remains unclear whether the developer intends to submit a new planning application. Any future application would be evaluated separately and would require a new consultation process. Should a new application be made, Penketh Parish Council will ensure that residents are informed and have the opportunity to submit their comments and concerns through the formal planning process.