MEC was appointed by Elgin Energy EsCo Limited to provide a suite of technical assessments in support of a planning application for a Battery Energy Storage System (BESS) at Queenlaines Farm, Swindon. The proposals included 48 battery storage units, 24 power conversion system units, a primary substation compound, associated storage containers, internal access routes, and secure fencing with CCTV monitoring.
The site, located east of the A361 Highworth Road, comprises approximately two hectares of agricultural land. It is bounded by farmland to the north and east, a wooded area to the south, and Highworth Road to the west. Its position on the edge of Swindon made it a suitable location for new energy infrastructure, provided that environmental and technical considerations could be carefully addressed.
MEC’s geo-environmental team carried out a Phase I Desk Study to assess the history, geology, and environmental setting of the site. The land has been in agricultural use since the late 19th century, and former industrial activity is not recorded. The site underlain by limestone of the Stanford Formation, which offers favourable ground conditions for development in terms of engineering design. While significant contamination risks were not identified, the proximity to the former South Marston Aerodrome introduced a low potential for unexploded ordnance, which will need to be managed as the project moves forward. Early recommendations included intrusive ground investigations to confirm foundation design parameters and BRE365 testing to support the drainage strategy.
Flood risk was also an important consideration. The site lies entirely within Flood Zone 1, with a very low probability of fluvial flooding, and surface water risk was classified as low. Our flood risk and drainage team developed a strategy based on sustainable drainage principles, making best use of the underlying limestone. While Infiltration through soakaways was viable, provision was also made for surface water to be managed through an attenuation basin before discharging by gravity to a watercourse located approximately 600 metres to the south. This approach gives the scheme long-term resilience and aligns with national planning requirements for SuDS.
Access and movement were addressed through a detailed Transport Statement. A new site entrance onto Highworth Road was designed to accommodate both construction traffic and occasional operational visits once the facility is in place. Swept path analysis and a Stage 1 Road Safety Audit supported the design, ensuring that large vehicles could safely enter and exit the site. Given the nature of the project, traffic movements during operation will be minimal, limited to periodic maintenance checks. The construction phase, however, required a carefully considered management plan to coordinate deliveries, control vehicle routing and ensure road safety along this key local route.
Across the project, ground conditions demanded close attention. The limestone geology provided suitable conditions for shallow foundations, but the presence of mature boundary trees and nearby clay deposits required a flexible approach to design.
Although the site is at low risk of flooding, developing a drainage solution that complemented the natural geology was essential. The proposed basin, supported by soakaway testing, offered a practical way of managing surface water without increasing risk downstream.
Highway access onto the A361 also presented a challenge, as the route carries regular traffic. Through detailed assessment and engagement with the highway authority, our team demonstrated that the new access could be delivered safely, avoiding adverse impacts on the local network.
We were delighted to see this development approved at planning committee and look forward to seeing it progress.
back