A solar farm in County Durham is set for approval despite locals’ concerns over its size and impact.
The court said the council erred because they didn’t consider if the panel area was too big and if it needed to match the stated energy output. The prior scheme received approval in March 2023.
Judge Fordham made this decision in February 2024. The solar farm could cover fourteen fields, some of which are close to Chapman’s Well nature reserve.
Lightsource bp reapplied last year for the 92-hectare site. They say landscaping improvements reduce visual impact, and the planning committee votes on Wednesday, March 5.
Locals state the resubmitted plan is too similar and still has 110,640 solar panels. They sent 603 objections and 68 letters of support with concerns including harm to the landscape, nearby homes, and lost farmland.
Objectors feel it will industrialize the quiet countryside and alter the rural feel of the village. The development’s huge size also concerns residents.
One resident, Victoria Dodd, expressed her concerns, stating the plan is overwhelming and encroaches on the village. She believes it should not proceed.
Concerns exist for Chapman’s Well Nature Reserve, which makes it a very important ecological site. They fear disturbance of buried foot-and-mouth remains, and airborne dust particles are also a worry.
One objector criticized Lightsource bp’s motives, feeling the company doesn’t care about residents. They believe their focus is to ultimately get their own way in the end.
Landowners say the land is bad for crops and livestock. Lightsource bp claims the farm will power 14,000 homes and provide community benefits of £500,000 while also generating millions in business rates.
The company says they worked with the council and addressed comments from various consultants. Solar farms lower electricity costs for people and businesses, and the officers recommend approval for this application, saying Lightsource bp feels it would benefit the area positively environmentally and economically.