Residents angry at proposals for solar energy farm and battery storage system near homes

A North Lanarkshire community is coming together in opposition against plans for a solar energy farm and battery storage system near their homes.

Developers behind the proposed site in Newarthill say the project would deliver cheaper, more reliable energy to two nearby businesses.

But local residents argue it would come at the expense of valued green space and negatively impact those living nearby.

The debate comes at a time when the field in question is still in active use during the height of the spring lambing season, with sheep grazing across the land.

For residents like Susan Brough, preserving the space has become a priority as plans move forward to transform the area into a solar energy hub.

She said: “We’re by no means against renewables. We fully support renewable energy but believe that they have to be put on the right site. Not on a greenbelt site that is so close to residences.”

The proposal includes installing ground-mounted solar panels alongside a battery storage system, with the aim of supplying green energy directly to two local businesses.

Developers say the project would support the transition away from fossil fuels and bring more than £2m of investment into the area.

But some residents remain unconvinced about the benefits.

James Cardno said: “If I could go back to a phrase that we used up north when I stayed there – ‘there’s no one goes around in this world saying they’re selling rotten fish’.

“It’s all excellent when they’re selling it but we have to live with the consequences of what they do.”

Another local resident, Calum MacInnes, says he has seen green space in the area steadily diminish over the years.

Calum said: “I can see why people think it’s NIMBYism but I have a field directly opposite my house that is suitable to put this in, and they’re not using that because it’s going to be somewhat more expensive to do it.”

The developers were unavailable for interview, but in planning documents they state the project will have no negative environmental impact.

They also say they are committed to working with the community on a benefits package.

The proposal is expected to go before the council no earlier than June, with locals determined to continue their opposition in the meantime.