Application:
P25/S1032/FUL | Installation of photovoltaic panels on the existing flat roof of Park Sports Centre, demolition of the existing electricity sub station enclosure and installation of a new electricity sub station enclosure in the same position, installation of electrical switch room, installation of raised platform for Air Source Heat Pumps, installation of two Domestic Hot Water Heat pump Units, installation of two Air Source Heat Pumps and acoustic fence around them, installation of Access ladders and edge protection to the roof of Park Sports Centre. | The Park Sports Centre Road Passing Wheatley Park School Holton OX33 1QZ
Our Response:
March 2025
We support this planning application. Investment in renewable energy infrastructure will play a critical role in achieving the government’s plan to reduce the UK domestic carbon account by 100% by 2050.
We support the use of existing buildings to house infrastructure, such as Solar Photovoltaics, where there is no adverse effect on the public realm. This will limit the need for the development of solar farms in rural landscapes, protecting the Green Belt and Oxford’s green setting.
We urge officers and policy makers to produce a strategy for the location of renewable energy schemes across Oxfordshire. Oxfordshire’s Green Belt, and in particular the highly sensitive green setting of the historic city of Oxford is at threat from incremental, inappropriate development. A strategic approach is needed to assure that the most sensitive areas of countryside are avoided. Without such a strategy, applications will be determined on a piecemeal basis, with no consideration of the cumulative impacts.