Home Farm

Client: Private
Local Planning Authority: West Berkshire

Squires Planning is pleased to have secured a Certificate of Lawful Development for the installation of 44 solar panels on the south-facing roof slope of an agricultural building in West Berkshire. The proposal was assessed under Class J of the Town and Country Planning (General Permitted Development) (England) Order 2015, which allows for the installation of certain types of solar equipment on non-domestic buildings without the need for planning permission.

A key first step in the process was determining whether the proposed solar array constituted microgeneration, as this directly influences the type of application required. The system’s output was calculated at 20.68kW, well below the 50kW threshold set out in the Energy Act 2004. As such, the installation fell within the definition of microgeneration. This meant that the correct route was an application for a Certificate of Lawfulness under Class J(b). Had the capacity exceeded 50 kW, the installation would not have been considered microgeneration and instead would have required prior approval under Class J(c).

To support the application, we prepared a detailed planning statement demonstrating compliance with each of the criteria of Class J(b). Key considerations included ensuring the panels would not project more than 0.2 metres beyond the plane of the roof slope and confirming that no equipment would be installed within 1 metre of the external edges of the roof.

Our clear and robust submission allowed the local planning authority to assess the application swiftly. The application was approved promptly under delegated authority, enabling our client to progress with the installation and enhance the energy efficiency of their agricultural enterprise. We are delighted to have supported this sustainable investment and to have helped our client navigate the regulations governing renewable energy infrastructure.

Squires Planning has extensive experience in solar-related projects, from Certificates of Lawfulness and prior approval applications to full planning applications for both roof-mounted and ground-mounted systems. If you are considering installing solar panels on a building or land, get in touch with Squires Planning to see how we can support your project.