Stop Frome BESS, save Frome.

Stop Frome BESS and save Frome from facing a potential major disaster.

We are a group of Frome residents who are vehemently opposed to a full planning application to install a 30MW lithium battery energy storage site adjacent to our homes.

It's the right application, but in the wrong place.

We feel our case would be strengthened by the services of a Planning Consultant well versed in BESS technology, sites and planning policy. Fire risk/safety issues, effect on the landscape, noise levels, biodiversity, loss of amenity, contaminated water run-off (should a fire/explosion occur.

There are inherent risks in using lithium batteries and there have 60+ explosions/fires on BESS sites worldwide. Lack of regulation and planning policy can result in battery sites being imposed on communities, because developers solely have a profit motive and will attempt to cram too many battery units on small sites like ours, ignoring multiple Fire Chiefs Council fire safety guidance measures.

We are looking to raise £900 to pay the fee of a Planning Consultant to help us negotiate the stormy waters of the planning process and hopefully achieve a resounding rejection of this planning application. Any additional funds raised can go towards our campaign fund. It's just plain wrong and morally criminal to seek planning permission for a hazardous site prior to the implementation of imminent legislation going through Parliament right now, that will force operators to apply for Industrial Permits and give the Fire and Rescue Service, the Environment Agency and HSE the clout that will come with Statutory Consultee status.

We hope that Somerset Council can assist the Applicant to find a more suitable site out of town.