Residents have voiced concerns about plans for a new battery storage facility in Chickerell.

They were attending a community engagement event held at Willowbed Hall yesterday by developers who wish to build the facility.

The scheme by Statera Energy Ltd proposes using a site to the west of Weymouth in Chickerell for a battery storage facility to back up the National Grid.

Statera had also planned a huge solar farm nearby but this has been scrapped.

The proposed site for the battery facility is just north of the existing Chickerell sub-station, directly south of Coldharbour.

If successful it could see up to 480 modified 12-metre shipping containers used to accommodate the batteries with 30 inverters and outdoor transformers – all enclosed by a 3m tall security fence.

Resident Ann Mason said her main concern about the plan was that the facility would be a fire hazard.

She said: "I don't think it should be positioned there.

"We have been told it could explode, although I have been reassured here that it won't.

"I know we have got to look to the future, but not at the safety of our children."

Dorset Echo: Statera Power held a community engagement event in Chickerell about their proposed battery scheme

Another resident said: "I think it's far too close to houses and the potential danger is too great.

"The risk of fire and potential of explosion is a concern."

Jacqui Gardiner came to find out more. She is in favour of sustainability but wants to make sure things are safe.

She said: "It is the fire issue really. We are positive about renewables but it's got to be safe.

"We are installing solar panels on our home and hope to sell back to the grid and it's got to be stored. So it makes sense to have them (batteries), so long as they are safe."

Oliver Troup, the development lead on the project, said: "Statera has built and operates batteries across the UK and we have an impeccable safety record. We comply with all necessary standards.

"Whilst people may be concerned there is no reason to panic.

"The batteries and projects like these are a fundamental part of reaching net zero.

"Nobody likes change, but this is a well-thought-through proposal that will bring good benefits locally and nationally."

Statera plans to submit a planning application to Dorset Council by May and expects determination by Q4 of this year.

If approved, work would likely start in 2026, with the scheme going live in 2027.