Planning approval granted for discreet solar panel installation at Glenarm Castle

Glenarm Castle, County Antrim

Planning permission has been granted by Mid and East Antrim Borough Council for the installation of solar panels at Glenarm Castle.

The listed building consent application was submitted by Antrim Estates Company. Glenarm Castle is a Grade A listed building, recognised for its special architectural and historic interest.

A planning officer’s report said the Department for Communities’ Historic Environment Division (HED) raised no objections to the proposal, subject to conditions.

The report describes the castle as a three-storey mansion featuring corner turrets, domelets, weather vanes, gabled parapets, tall chimneys and a large entrance porch, set within an estate extending to 557 hectares.

Plans will see solar panel fitted discreetly in the inner slants of the roof on Glenarm Castle

Planning officials noted that the Historic Environment Division was satisfied the proposed location of the solar panels would not be visible within the wider setting of the listed building.

“The essential character and special architectural and/or historic interest of the building and its features of special interest remain intact and unimpaired,” the report stated.

It added that the proposed works are in keeping with the existing building and, due to their planned location, will not be visible.

The report also said the installation would remain subordinate to the existing building in terms of height, scale, form and proportion. As part of the approval, the solar panels must be black and non-reflective.

Planning officers concluded that the development is sympathetic to the listed building and would not result in any significant loss of key public views of the historic property.

“HED have specified conditions to ensure that the proposal respects the special architectural and historic interest and integrity of the building,” the report said.

The newly approved solar panels will not be visible from the ground surrounding Glenarm Castle

It added:

“The design and external materials of the proposal are sympathetic with the built form and appearance of the existing property and will not detract from the appearance and character of the surrounding area.

“The proposed solar panels will not have an unacceptable adverse impact on visual amenity due to their location.”