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Governors oppose battery storage site near Knaresborough primary school

Thursday, 28 May 2026 07:16

Pupils at Scotton Lingerfield Primary School near Knaresborough.

The governing body of a primary school near Knaresborough has announced its opposition to plans for a large-scale battery energy storage system next to the school site.

Governors at Scotton Lingerfield Primary School say they are concerned about the proposed development on land close to the school gates, citing issues around safety, noise, traffic and the impact on the learning environment.

While the school says it supports the transition to renewable energy, governors believe the chosen location for the Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) is unsuitable.

Among the concerns raised are the risk of “thermal runaway” fires, which governors say could create dangerous conditions requiring the evacuation of pupils.

The governing body has also highlighted concerns over noise from cooling fans and inverter systems, saying it could affect the rural learning environment and children with sensory sensitivities.

Governors say the development could also affect outdoor learning opportunities and alter the character of the surrounding countryside views used to support pupil wellbeing.

In a statement, the Chair of Governors said:

"Our first and most sacred duty is the safeguarding of the children in our care.

"While we recognise the national importance of energy storage, it should not come at the expense of our children's safety.

"A BESS is an industrial utility; placing it mere meters from a primary school playground is, in our view, a fundamental planning failure.

"We urge the local planning authority to prioritise the protection of our young learners and reject this application."

Traffic during the construction phase has also been raised as an issue, with concerns about increased heavy goods vehicle movements on narrow roads in Scotton and Farnham during school drop-off and pick-up times.

The governing body says it is now working with local residents and the parish council as part of the consultation process.

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