Council Land Targeted for Battery Storage Site Sparks Questions

The community council wrote to the Scottish Government, questioning the council’s role on the BESS plans, as the council owns the land near homes. Concerns arose about planning committee members who may have been misled about objecting.

The BESS is planned near Inglis Farm, sitting on farm land by a brownfield area. People want more action to stop it. This followed a council vote on an amended plan where seven voted against objecting; four agreed.

The Scottish Government decides on the BESS, with East Lothian Council giving its comments. The council first objected but withdrew it after talks with the developer.

The plan changed into two parts: Parcel A and B. Councilors could only respond to one part, unable to comment further on the original plan. The community council questioned this advice.

The chairperson contacted the ECU for clarity. The ECU stated the council decided on no reply, because the council said no changes were proposed, thus it would not comment further on Parcel A.

The public raised concerns at a meeting, citing fire risks and the council’s dual role as the landowner and planning consultee. This was seen as a conflict of interest.

The meeting agreed to contact committee members and also tell the Scottish Government about the land issue. They will encourage objections to the site.

A council spokesperson said procedures were correct. The committee could only comment on the current plan. Rules prevent raising discussed items again unless changes or a motion are needed first.

The council stressed it is not the planning authority. They consult, but ministers decide on the application. People can submit input to the ECU.