BAE Systems has lodged proposals to demolish a former gas and fuel storage facility in a bid to provide space to enable the company to ‘expand its operations’ in the future.

The defence giants have submitted a planning application for the demolition and removal of existing infrastructure on the former Spirit Energy site on Barrow Island.

According to planning documents, at a public exhibition it was explained that BAE Systems does not yet have any proposals for the future use of the site.

Plans add: “BAE Systems was presented with an opportunity to purchase the site and did so to provide space to expand its operations at Barrow in the future, but no specific use or development has been identified at this stage and there are currently no identified timescales for when a future development may come forward.”

 

Proposals from BAE  involve the demolition and removal of existing buildings on the site as well as earthworks to create a level platform at 8.5 metres.

According to planning documents, the proposed earthworks will involve the excavation of approximately 150,000 cubic metres of material, of which around 41,000 cubic metres will be used to create the level platform.

The planning statement adds 62,000 cubic metres will be stockpiled on the site to allow it to be used in any ‘future development’ whilst the remainder will be removed from the site and disposed of at an appropriate facility.

Planning documents say the removal of the material from the site will involve around 35 movements from heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) a day for approximately a year, with work planned to start in spring 2025.

Westmorland and Furness Council previously determined an environmental impact assessment (EIA) is not required for the demolition and removal of existing infrastructure on the former Spirit Energy site.

A decision notice issued by the council says whilst the proposed development will raise important planning considerations, these are ‘not considered so significant’ to warrant an EIA.

According to the decision notice relevant planning issues including heritage, landscape and visual impact, among others, will be addressed through the planning application.

The notice adds: “The works could also deliver environmental benefits in terms of improved drainage, pollution control and providing a clean site for future development, green infrastructure and biodiversity net gain.”

This planning application is currently undergoing public consultation