CWAC signs off 136-acre solar farm, rejects 70 homes
Summary
Cheshire West and Chester Council’s planning committee approved an outline application for a 20MW solar farm with battery storage near Frodsham, while refusing outline consent for 70 homes off London Road, Davenham. The housing scheme was rejected against officer recommendation after members raised concerns about countryside encroachment, flood risk information, agricultural land loss and effects on Peckmill Farm.
Why it matters
The article highlights how local planning decisions can diverge from officer advice, with implications for development viability, site appraisal and risk assessment. Surveyors involved in residential land, valuation or planning support should note the committee’s emphasis on flood risk, heritage impact and agricultural land quality.
Key points
- CWAC approved a 20MW solar farm with energy storage near Frodsham.
- Outline consent for 70 homes at Davenham was refused by committee members.
- Concerns included highway impact, flood risk, countryside encroachment and heritage harm.
- The refusal cited loss of best and most versatile agricultural land and limited flood risk information.
- The housing site had attracted around 70 representations and was opposed by the parish council.
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