The Planning Committee of South Holland Council met on Wednesday, 8 October 2025, to discuss and determine several planning applications. Key decisions included granting permission for three new dwellings in Crowland, a retrospective application for a new shopfront in Spalding, and the construction of a micro energy storage project in Spalding. The committee also received an update on recent planning appeal decisions.

Erection of 3 Dwellings at Land at Blackbird Close, Crowland

Permission was granted for the erection of three dwellings with garages at Land at Blackbird Close, Crowland. This application was a resubmission following a previous deferral and appeal dismissal. Councillors noted the welcome improvements to the scheme, including better integration with the location. However, concerns were raised regarding site levels, the suitability of proposed tree planting near an existing wall, and the clarity of boundaries for the green area. The risk of contaminated land, due to the site's previous industrial use, was addressed by officers, who confirmed it was covered by condition 5. A new condition was added for landscaping and tree planting, ensuring details of species, numbers, and maintenance were provided, and that Biodiversity Net Gain would be achieved. The committee also confirmed that a sequential test for flood risk had not been undertaken, which was a point of discussion due to a recent appeal decision on another site.

New Shopfront – Retrospective at 24 Winsover Road, Spalding

Permission was granted for a retrospective application for a new shopfront at 24 Winsover Road, Spalding. The application sought to replace a previous bay window with a new shopfront. Councillors debated the aesthetic impact of the new design, with some feeling it was a poor replacement and out of place with neighbouring properties. The retrospective nature of the application was discussed, with officers clarifying that this was not a material consideration for refusal. Despite some reservations about the design and the use of grey aluminium, the committee noted that Winsover Road had an eclectic mix of shopfronts and that the proposal, particularly after amendments, was an improvement on earlier iterations. The cumulative impact of changes and concerns about the structural integrity of the canopy were also raised.

Construction and Operation of a Micro Energy Storage Project at Sir Halley Stewart Playing Field, Spalding

Permission was granted for the construction and operation of a micro energy storage project at Sir Halley Stewart Playing Field, Winfrey Avenue, Spalding. The application was discussed in light of its proximity to residential properties. Concerns were raised by Councillor Ingrid Sheard regarding fire safety, risk to residents, and the need for stringent fire precautions and enforcement. Officers confirmed that a fire safety plan was in place and emergency access was available. Lincolnshire Fire & Rescue provided guidance, recommending adherence to safety standards for Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS), including fire containment and clear access. Environmental Protection raised concerns about noise levels impacting nearby residents, but a submitted noise assessment concluded that adverse noise effects were unlikely. The proposal was considered to have a low flood risk and met the criteria for Biodiversity Net Gain exemption.

Planning Appeals

The committee received an update on recent planning appeal decisions. Three appeals were dismissed, and one was allowed. The report noted that since April 2017, 264 appeal decisions had been received, with a success rate of 74.62% for the council.