Wallerscote Solar Park will export clean energy to the local grid network, generating enough electricity to meet the energy needs of approximately 6,500 average family homes. This will displace over 130,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions, compared to grid electricity reliant on fossil fuel sources.
This project will contribute significantly towards the UK’s efforts for decarbonisation and security of energy supplies. The proposed development provides the opportunity to retain, increase and manage as much of the biodiverse rich grassland as possible and provide significant ecological enhancement when compared to the site if left to naturally colonise. This bespoke approach to Biodiversity Net Gain will be agreed with Cheshire West and Chester Council (CWaCC) in advance of the planning application submission.
Proposed remediation works will deliver numerous benefits, including:
- enhanced surface water management to prevent migration of materials from the lime beds into the River Weaver;
- an optimum platform for the solar development; and
- an enhanced wildlife area with safe public access which will be designed with input from the local community, which include circa 4km of new multiuser footpaths.
Details of how the construction stage will be managed in a safe, considerate, and environmentally responsible way will be set out in documents to be provided to CWaCC as part of the Discharge of Conditions process.