Community Benefits

The transition to renewable energy brings with it benefits from developers to communities impacted by their work. In relation to wind farms, the UK Government has imposed set levels for these benefits which can result in seven figure sums for the areas involved.   No such legislation exists in relation to battery energy storage systems (BESS), in fact, developers do not need to provide any benefit to communities.

In our community council area we have been heavily impacted by the extension to Eccles Substation by Scottish Power Energy Networks.    Their benefits were distributed through a grant system.    We managed to secure a substantial grant to instal solar panels, battery storage and new heating system to Birgham Village Hall and a further Environmental Grant which provided money to our three villages for floral displays.    A grant application to install solar panels etc to Leitholm Village Hall was withdrawn due to the uncertainty of future of the hall at that time.

We have  two active BESS developments in our area: Zenobe and Matrix, both of whom have committed £25k per year, index linked, for the lifetime of their work in our area (approximately 30 years).  Both companies have identified our Community Led Plan priorities as being in line with how they wish these monies to be spent and the Community Council as representative for the whole area as the body to guide the use of the funds.

Community Led Plan Priorities:

1.      Connectivity

• Improved communications networks (digital and traditional).

• Better disability access information for events and buildings.

• Enhanced public transport and cycle routes connecting villages and towns.

2.      Inclusivity

• Creating vibrant, friendly and supportive communities.

• Ensuring all people (regardless of age or background) are valued, included and supported.

3.      Sustainability

• Working toward becoming a greener, more sustainable community.

• Focus on better home insulation, generating green energy, and improving recycling.

4.      Health and Wellbeing

• Access to exercise and social interaction for all ages.

• Creating safe villages and communities.

• Ensuring village halls can serve as resilient, safe hubs during disruptions.

5.      Pride of Place

• Developing communities where residents are proud to live in.

6.      Rural Environment

• Retaining the rural environment for community benefit.

• Protecting wildlife and flora.

• Maintaining food production capabilities.

7.      Tourism and Heritage

• Contributing to and benefiting from responsible tourism.

• Promoting local heritage and history.

• Creating connected paths and heritage trails between villages.

 Initial Priorites:

1. To provide a quarterly newsletter to all homes in our community council area informing and consulting our people.

2. Ensuring that our halls at Birgham and Leitholm are in good condition and fit for the 21st century.    This project should also look to the halls/hall activities are available to all of our community, their use is increased and that they can provide a warm refuge in times of need.

3.  We are exploring the need for public transport/car club, in particular for Letiholm and Birgham.