Cardiff Airport: Hotel solar panels a danger to aircraft, council says

The hotel appealed against the decision and has submitted a planning application

A hotel next to Cardiff Airport has been ordered to remove its solar panels after safety concerns were raised.

Holiday Inn Express Cardiff Airport in Rhoose had installed the panels without planning permission.

Vale of Glamorgan council issued an enforcement notice after concerns they could impact on the safety of flights operating next door.

The hotel appealed against the decision and has submitted a planning application.

A council spokesperson said: "The council became aware that solar panels had been added to the south-facing roof slopes of the hotel.

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"Such a development is not permitted due to the proximity to the airport and so planning permission is required.

"This is to allow relevant authorities the opportunity to assess proposals, to ensure that there would not be any glint or glare or any other impact which may affect the safe operation of air traffic.

"It is likely that this would involve a technical assessment of the panels to establish their orientation, type and relationship to the airport and air traffic routes."

The Local Democracy Reporting Service reported that the presence of solar panels on the roof of the Holiday Inn Express was first brought to the attention of Vale of Glamorgan council following a complaint on 5 September.

Solar panels usually don't require planning permission, but as the hotel is located within 3km (1.8 miles) of the airport an application should have been made.

Speaking at a Vale of Glamorgan council planning committee meeting on Thursday 26 October, Neil Thomas said: "It is an important one, really.

"It seems minor, but it is important because of aircraft safety."

Vale of Glamorgan council also issued the hotel with a temporary stop notice to prevent any further panels from being installed on the building.

A spokesperson for Holiday Inn Express Cardiff Airport said: "We are working closely with local authorities to resolve this matter and remain committed to our long-term environmental sustainability goals."