Large batteries could be housed at derelict Sompting site

The site, which is located 260 metres north of the Halewick Lane allotments, has been unused and derelict for more than 10 years, a spokesman said.

The county council is in discussion with the South Downs National Park Authority about plans to remove the derelict buildings, improve the surroundings and use the area to locate a number of large batteries contained in single-storey, shipping-type containers, which will be screened from view, the spokesman said.

“The batteries will be used to store surplus electricity from the National Grid and release it for use when the demand for electricity is at its highest, for example, during evening peak periods,” the spokesman said.

“Developing energy storage capacity and generating renewable energy in the county are key priorities set out in the County Council’s Energy Strategy.”

Information about the project is available to view at the Sompting Big Local, The Parade, Cokeham Road, from tomorrow (Thursday, September 6) until next Friday.

Council officers from the Energy Team will also be at the Big Local to talk about the plans, answer any questions and listen to feedback from 2pm to 4pm tomorrow, 10am to midday on Friday (September 7) and 10am to midday on Friday (September 14).

The council hopes to gather feedback on the outline plans before a formal planning application is submitted in early October.

Anyone unable to come along but who wants to be kept informed about the project as the plans develop should email [email protected]

SEE MORE: Fight breaks out in Worthing park after suspected sexual assault

CCTV image released after wallet stolen from dying Worthing father

Watch police pursue woman as she drives on wrong side of A264 near Horsham