23.12.22-Wrexham-Planning
Press release

Planning success for Wrexham solar project

23rd December 2022

 

Novus Renewable Services Limited (Novus) secured planning permission for Innova Renewables’ Wrexham solar farm project in November 2022.

The solar farm will be located by the Maelor Gas Works in in Wrexham and will deliver 5.7MW of solar power, and 10MW of battery storage. The Wrexham project is looking set for construction in late 2023 by Innova.

Through successful negotiation with statutory consultees, we were able to find a solution to a complex planning process that will deliver significant long-term environmental benefits, in addition to the much-needed renewable energy the project will provide.

In consultation with Wrexham Council and Natural Resource Wales (NRW), Novus have agreed a Great Crested Newt Habitat Mitigation Strategy and Management Plan. This includes the provision of hibernacula, the creation of new pond habitats, hedgerow creation and a rough grassland corridor. The plans also include the retention of existing hedgerows and trees and planting of new trees.

In reaching their decision, Wrexham Council noted that: “The proposal will make a modest but nevertheless important contribution to the generation of renewable energy in the County Borough and towards meeting the Welsh Government’s target. The benefits of increased renewable energy generation capacity are therefore considered to be in the public interest”.

 

Simon Gamage, Planning Director for Innova said

 

“The project at Wrexham will deliver much needed renewable energy to the electricity network and we are pleased to receive the planning decision. We would like to thank Wrexham Council and their statutory consultees for their engagement throughout the planning process as well as our internal team and expert consultants. This decision is a positive step forward in our mission to help the UK achieve its net zero targets as we step into the next period of growth.”

 

The application submission was managed by Corylus Planning and Environmental Ltd and ecology support provided by Etive Ecology Ltd.

 

Download the press release