Energy projects and local decision-making move up the South West agenda

Energy infrastructure and local decision-making are emerging as parallel themes in the South West's latest business and planning announcements.

The Business Desk South West reported that M5 closures have been planned to allow a power cable to be laid for the Agratas battery plant, with work scheduled to avoid school holidays and carnival season [2].

The same outlet reported that a solar farm described as bigger than 120 football pitches has been approved and will operate for 40 years, despite countryside concerns [3][4].

Transport leadership is also changing: Bristol Airport has appointed utilities boss Charley Maher as its new chief executive, replacing Dave Lees [6][11].

On fiscal decision-making, The Business Desk South West said 88% of South West businesses support fiscal devolution to regional mayors, saying it would boost growth [7].

Bristol is considering one-hour bus tickets and a city-centre loop, potentially funded by £4m of clean-air-zone income, according to The Business Desk South West [10].

Bristol24/7 separately reported that rules on who can drive through bus gates could be loosened [5].

Other expansions reported around the same time include Hollister's first South West outlet at Gloucester Quays, a Cornish Bakery opening with sales 50% above forecast, and a Bath office for LK Group after its regional revenues doubled [1][8][9].

Read together, the reports connect energy projects, transport choices and devolved funding decisions in the South West.