Green light for temporary construction base at energy storage site
A temporary construction compound linked to a major energy storage project near Hunshelf has been given formal planning approval.
Barnsley Metropolitan Borough Council has issued a certificate of lawful development allowing a section of agricultural land off Tofts Lane, near Snowden Hill, to be used as a temporary base during the construction of an energy storage facility on neighbouring land.
The compound will support the building of the approved energy storage site next to Hunshelf Substation, which already has planning permission. Construction of that project is expected to take around two years.
Under the approval, the land can be used for a temporary compound including portable cabins for offices and staff welfare, parking for construction workers’ vehicles, storage of plant and equipment, and security fencing and gates.
Planning officers said the compound is lawful because planning rules allow land to be used temporarily to support construction work on an adjoining site. The permission applies only for the duration of the energy storage project and the land must be returned to its original condition once construction is complete.
In granting the certificate, the council confirmed that the proposal falls within permitted development rules for temporary buildings and uses, meaning no full planning application was required.