York Council approves solar panels for Network Rail building

703 panels to be installed at Clifton Moor Retail Park

Author: Lynsey BagnallPublished 18th Aug 2026

Hundreds of solar panels will soon be installed on a Network Rail building at Clifton Moor Retail Park in York, following the City of York Council's approval.

The plan includes placing 703 solar panels on the roof, delivering a capacity of approximately 358 kilowatt-peak.

Council planning officers expressed no objections, finding the proposal to be in agreement with aesthetic and external considerations.

The installation will be spread across four areas of the building's roof at Unit Five, Audax Road, home to Network Rail’s National Records Centre.

The height of the building ensures the panels remain unseen from public view, aligning with the building's industrial character.

Officials highlighted that the panels are not near residential dwellings, ensuring no loss of amenity from glare.

The scheme supports York's renewable energy initiatives without impacting local surroundings.

With approval granted, installation of the solar array marks a significant step towards sustainable energy solutions in the area.

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