Solar application approved

It will butt up alongside Silo Rd and part of the Newell Highway.

A development application submitted by Greentech Solar was last week moved by Berrigan Shire councillors, on the proviso that a number of conditions are met.

Council’s conditions include that development must be implemented in accordance with the approved plans, specifications and supporting documentation, that all building work be carried out in accordance with the provisions of the Building Code of Australia, and that the consent is limited to a period of five years from the date of the notice of determination.

The passing of the DA allows Greentech Solar to continue with its planning and the application process for the proposed project.

Because the value of the project is over $5 million, the new solar farm is considered a state significant development.

It means the final decision on whether the project proceeds lies with the NSW Government.

In presenting the DA to council, town planner Noureen Wajid’s report to council said the application complied with the relevant sections of the Environmental Planning and Assessment Act 1979, the Berrigan Local Environment Plan and the Berrigan Development Control Plan.

“Following a thorough assessment, the proposal is considered to be generally consistent with the relevant planning objectives and controls,” the report said.

“The proposed development is unlikely to have any unreasonable impact on the environment or the locality.

“The key issues of construction noise, construction traffic, access and parking, visual impact and decommissioning have been resolved satisfactorily in the recommended draft conditions.

“The proposal is suitable for the site, compatible with the locality and is considered to be in the public interest.”

Council’s report suggests there would be minimal social impact as a result of the project, but that its economic impact would be positive.

The project would bring economic benefits to the area through the creation of employment opportunities.

The solar farm is proposed to be constructed over a four to five month period, utilising 30 to 38 construction staff on site at any one time. The operational phase will not require staff permanently on-site.

A program of inspections and monitoring will be prepared for maintenance staff.

The development is proposed to be decommissioned within 32 years, at the end of the expected lifespan of the solar panels.

The decommissioning of the solar farm and subsequent rehabilitation of the land will include removal of all infrastructure, followed by on-site works, so that the property can be returned to its previous use.

During public consultation, council received eight submissions regarding the project. Seven did not support the development.

Six of those provided specific reasons for their objections, which include: Proximity to the town; health impact on local residents; impacts on agriculture land and waterways; glare; location and neighbouring uses; visual impact; close proximity of explosive storage areas; and fire hazard.

All matters were addressed in follow up reports, and at a consultation meeting involving the applicant and the objectors held on June 6.

All reports relating to the project can be viewed at www.planningportal.nsw.gov.au/daex/under-consideration/sub-5mw-solar-farm-and-battery-storage-facility.