There are plans afoot to build a large-scale battery energy storage systems (BESS) in potato fields next to the historic parkland
It is thought the site at Heath Common, Wakefield, could contain remains from the late prehistoric, Roman and medieval periods.“Dame Mary Bolle’s Water Tower is located in a Class III Area of Archaeological Interest which extends into the application site. The proposal and its screening will have a negative impact on the tower’s setting and views out of the village over historic park and farm land.
"The application site should be subject to an archaeological evaluation to fully identify its archaeological potential prior to determining the application. The evaluation should comprise a geophysical survey and the excavation of a number of trial trenches.” Wakefield Civic Society has also submitted an objection to the scheme, saying: “Although we generally welcome measures to improve energy efficiency and the security and self-sufficiency of energy supply through renewable sources, the main concern here is one of safety with the proposed facility being so close to the village of Heath and also to the Heath Common Travellers’ Site.
At least 60 container-sized units could be put in place on seven hectares of land to hold giant lithium-ion batteries and cooling systems to store wind and solar energy. A campaign to block the plan has been launched by residents and is backed by local MPs and councillors. Residents’ groups say it poses a serious fire or explosion risk to nearby homes.