Residents of Frome have unsuccessfully challenged plans to construct a battery energy storage site adjacent to a busy residential neighborhood. These facilities store electricity during low demand periods, releasing it back to the National Grid during peak times to stabilize supply and demand.
Trina Solar UK HoldCo Ltd submitted an application in June 2023 to develop the site on land north of Styles Close, next to an existing substation. Despite strong opposition from local residents and a refusal by Somerset Council’s planning committee in February 2025—with support from local MP Anna Sabine—the Planning Inspectorate has overturned the decision upon appeal.
The Inspectorate’s report, authored by Graham Chamberlain, concluded that the risk of fire at the site is low and that the project would not significantly impact residents' quality of life. The battery facility will be located approximately 30 meters from nearby homes and directly connected to the substation. Additionally, new wetlands will be established near Rodden Lake Stream to mitigate environmental impacts.
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With a capacity of around 30 MW, this site is comparable to the existing Fideoak facility in Taunton, developed by South Somerset District Council as part of its commercial investments strategy.
Mr. Chamberlain highlighted the land’s slope away from residences, which reduces noise impact, further mitigated by a planned acoustic fence. He also noted that the visual presence of the site is consistent with existing infrastructure like overhead power lines and the substation, and that planned dense planting will provide effective screening without detriment to residents’ outlook.
Although construction noise will be limited to a six-month period, ongoing maintenance will be minimal, involving inspections approximately twice a month. Concerns around fire safety raised by MP Sabine and Councillor Adam Boyden were addressed comprehensively: battery units will feature fire detection and prevention systems, continuous monitoring, automatic shutdown protocols, and inert gas aerosol suppression systems to extinguish fires promptly. Each cabinet will be ventilated to avoid pressure buildup, with all batteries certified to national and international safety standards.
Access for emergency vehicles is ensured, with turning facilities on site and a fire hydrant located within 90 meters, eliminating the need for onsite water storage tanks. Notably, Devon and Somerset Fire and Rescue Service raised no formal objections during the planning process.
In the unlikely event of a fire, mitigation measures will prevent contamination of the adjacent Rodden Brook. Mr. Chamberlain concluded that the evidence does not show any unacceptable safety risk or impact on living conditions that would force residents to relocate.
Construction on the battery storage facility is anticipated to begin early next year.