Go-ahead for solar panels after council is overruled

AN application to place solar panels on the roof of a listed building has been accepted despite the council refusing permission earlier this year.

The owners of Cauldhame Steading, near Linlithgow, wanted to install the energy- generating features on the building to help provide more power.

West Lothian Council told them this would not be possible given its listed status.

However, after appealing to the Scottish Government, that decision has been overturned.

Holyrood planning reporter Gerry Farrington said although some “slight” damage would be caused to the original building, the benefit of the generation of solar energy would overcome that.

He said: “I allow the appeal and grant listed building consent.”

He added that fears from the local authority that planning approval could set a dangerous precedent for the safeguarding of other historic buildings were unfounded.