Issue - meetings

(i)               That the production of a detailed feasibility study and business case for the solar array at Keele be approved. Details to be provided through a further report.

(ii)              That the Deputy Chief Executive, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Finance, Town Centres & Growth, be authorised to submit a planning application for the solar array at Keele;

(iii)             That a further report on the progress and next steps required be received prior to any installation works being undertaken on site or end user agreements are signed.

The Leader introduced a report outlining plans for a feasibility study and business case for a solar array at Keele.

The Portfolio Holder for Finance, Town Centres and Growth stated that there was a lot of land that would not be used for many years and having a solar farm was part of the Council’s sustainable strategy.

The Leader stated that the land would not be used for burials for approximately forty years and this would be a good alternative use for the site.  Reference was made to the confidential appendix that would be considered at the end of the meeting.

The Portfolio Holder for Sustainable Environment welcomed this proposal stating that the solar panels lasted approximately twenty five years which would fit in with the Council’s long term plans.

The Portfolio Holder for Strategic Planning welcomed the proposal and stated that there would be a hedgerow separating the site from the cemetery to help to alleviate any noise from the windmills.

Resolved:    (i)       That the production of a detailed feasibility study and

business case for the solar array at Keele be approved. Details to be provided through a further report.

(ii)             That the Deputy Chief Executive, in consultation with the Portfolio Holder for Finance, Town Centres & Growth, be authorised to submit a planning application for the solar array at Keele;

(iii)           That a further report on the progress and next steps required be received prior to any installation works being undertaken on site or end user agreements are signed.

Watch the debate here