A controversial proposal for an energy storage facility in Oldham has sparked widespread concern among local residents worried it will hard the "tranquillity" of their lakeside area.
Root Power, a battery company, intends to construct a system to store renewable energy on greenbelt land near Medlock Road in Failsworth. The facility would store electricity generated by nearby solar power plants and would involve the installation of battery units, a substation, and storage containers, as well as the creation of a new access point.
However, the plan has been met with fierce opposition from Failsworth residents, who have expressed their concerns to the council over its impact on the area and on the Medlock Valley Fishery. The proposal is set to be reviewed by Oldham's planning committee on April 23.
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Over 20 locals have written to the council, expressing their distress over the potential impact of the development on the local wildlife and the peaceful atmosphere of the area. One resident commented: "I spend many hours walking and looking at the wildlife each week and just enjoy watching people fishing. It gives me and many others quiet time that's absolutely necessary to my well being.
"The extra noise night and day will have a detrimental effect."
Another resident added: "If this goes ahead it will damage the Medlock fishery as a business and cause me great stress... long live the Fish."
The value of the 'serene' and 'beautiful' lake area for many locals' mental wellbeing has been highlighted in several testimonies received by the local authority.
"It's an escape from all the city noise," one resident recounted. "Fishing there really helps with my anxiety and depression, hearing the wildlife, birds, etc. really helps me and I know there's many other anglers that feel the same way."
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Planning officers have recommended approving the application, claiming there is no significant evidence that the development will adversely affect mental health.
They have recognised the impact on greenbelt land, which usually faces restrictions on construction. However, they argue that the 'fundamental' role of the storage facility in helping Greater Manchester achieve Net Zero merits overriding the concerns regarding the openness of the space.
Root Power, the firm behind the proposal, pointed out that the land is currently a horse pasture and is 'well sheltered' from view due to surrounding vegetation. It says three-metre high acoustic fences around the battery units will also be put up to reduce noise pollution.