Solar PV and battery storage facility application approved, King's Lynn

Actions taken

Visibility

ADAS Landscape consultants completed a Landscape and Visual Appraisal which suggested there were no significant impacts on PRoWs, properties, roads, or commercial premises.

To assist with visual screening and make the proposal policy compliant, our landscape team proposed the creation of boundary hedgerows around the site.

Protected species

The Local Planning Authority raised that the development may impact the Wash Ramsar Special Protection Area. Following our assessment submission, the Local Planning Authority carried out a Habitat Regulations Assessment. A detailed Desk Study confirmed that the proposed development would have a negligible impact on local wildlife. It was therefore not necessary to carry out an Appropriate Assessment.

Flood risk

A Flood Risk Assessment was undertaken to address flooding concerns. The assessment concluded that surface water runoff could be attenuated within gravel-filled trenches. These trenches would allow run-off to infiltrate the surrounding ground, mimicking existing conditions.

‘Essential’ vs. ‘less vulnerable’ infrastructure

ADAS Planning argued that this development is classed as ‘Essential Infrastructure’ defined in Annex 3 of the National Planning Policy Framework. Essential infrastructure includes hospitals or water treatment plants which can be located in flood zones if required, as long as they remain operational and safe during floods. However, the Environmental Agency suggested it fell under the ‘Less Vulnerable’ category. Less vulnerable infrastructure, for example shops or offices, are generally discouraged from flood zones.

Regarding the Sequential Test, the Local Planning Authority was satisfied that there were no available or appropriate sites at a lower risk of flooding following it being demonstrated in the FRA and therefore the test was passed. This was based on the size of the land required, a national grid connection and other opportunities and constraints. It was also accepted by the Environment Agency that the development could be made safe for its lifetime and would not increase flood risk elsewhere and therefore passed the Exception Test.

It was also accepted by the Environment Agency that the development could be made safe for its lifetime and would not increase flood risk elsewhere and therefore passed the Exception Test.