INVERCLYDE’S planning department is opposed to a major renewable energy development proposed for a 70-hectare site on Devol Moor, Port Glasgow.
If approved, Knocknair Renewable Energy Park would include a 25-megawatt solar photovoltaic (PV) array with around 700 panels, and a 24.9-megawatt battery energy storage system (BESS).
The proposed £32million development would be south Of Dougliehill Road and east of B788 Kilmacolm Road.
Councillors on Inverclyde Planning Board are due to consider the application by Glasgow-based renewables developer Renewco Power next week.
Planners are recommending that permission be refused. Their report states: “The proposal will provide renewable energy, support the resilience of the electricity network and contribute to sustainable development, providing for greater and more efficient use of renewable energy generation in the electricity system, directly contributing to greenhouse gas emission reduction targets.
“However, the location of the development is such that the merits and qualities of the green belt are undermined by the proposed development. The location of the proposed development, at the transition from urban to green belt, is particularly sensitive and the natural character of the green belt would be negatively impacted.
“Furthermore, the scenic and landscape qualities of this particular section of the green belt would be adversely impacted; some unbroken sections of skyline would be interrupted, and the green belt would be increasingly associated with industrial development.
“The proposal does not satisfy key landscape considerations of green belt policy. It would undermine the purpose of the designation, be incompatible with the surrounding landscape character, fail to adequately minimise visual impact through design, and result in significant long-term adverse effects on environmental quality.
“Overall, the benefits of the proposed development are not considered to outweigh the adverse impacts.”
Thirty-six representations were received, of which six are objections and 31 are in support.
