Planning permission has now been submitted to South Lanarkshire Council for a massive solar array , HALF the size of Blantyre itself, right on our doorstep, across the Expressway on the upper fields of High Blantyre.
The full planning application by the Applicant (P/25/0887) has now been received by South Lanarkshire Council and seeks permission, under Section 36 of the Electricity Act 1989, for the construction of a Solar Photovoltaic (PV) Array comprising of over 114,000 solar panels on land at High Blantyre, North of Calderside Road, G72 9UF.
The scheme proposed for 11 fields adjacent to the Upper Calder would also surround Auchentibber and Calderside Farms.
The scheme proposes the installation of a ground-mounted Solar PV Array with an importing-and-exporting capacity of up to 85 MW. The development will comprise rows of PV modules mounted on frames, inverter and transformer stations, two 33 kV substations (including one for the Distribution Network Operator), internal access tracks and areas of hard-standing, security fencing, pole-mounted CCTV cameras, and a landscape buffer comprising new native planting and biodiversity enhancements.
For the record, we’re publicly forming a lengthy objection given the overwhelming loss of amenity, lack of consideration of heritage and history on almost every one of the 11 fields it’s proposed upon and not withstanding that its taking up the green space between Blantyre and East Kilbride. Given our stance, we’re willing to assist and join with any community group or organisation in constructing meaningful and robust objections.
Your opinion is of course up to you. We’re sure planning would like to hear your thoughts. Support and objections to this scheme can be quickly submitted on the Council’s planning portal here:
Either way, we would strongly encourage all residents in Blantyre to make their voices heard in this matter, having their say. Please share.
