Council rejects plan for solar farm near Burnhope after local opposition and a prior court ruling deeming the project unlawful.
The council had approved it before, in March 2023, but residents challenged it in court. The court ruled the project “unlawful” in February 2024. Lightsource bp applied again for the 227-acre site, improving the landscaping to help with views. The plan used up to 14 fields for panels, some near a nature reserve.
Campaigners said 110,640 panels would be huge. People sent 603 objections and 68 supporting letters, and locals protested on the land, holding signs saying “Don’t blight Burnhope”. Objectors said it would industrialize the countryside, changing the village’s rural feel, and they also worried about the nature reserve, a key ecological site.
Councillor David Boyes valued local recreation areas, stating the project would double Burnhope’s size, and he could not support the solar farm. Councillor Anita Savory also opposed the project, citing its large size, impact, and serious impact on the community. Their concerns had support from a local MP and parish councils.
Landowners said the land was bad for farming crops, claiming the solar farm would power homes, helping 14,000 homes overall and bringing about £500,000 in community perks. Will Gray, who owns land there, said it would help, noting that solar farms diversify income, securing his farm business; the farm employs 35 people, and footpaths would improve, he added.
Lightsource bp said it would greatly help the area, impacting the community both environmentally and economically. Councillor Simon Wilson supported the project, saying screening could lessen harm over time. He was aware of past appeals, and he said the government now wants net zero projects because it could lower bills and ensure energy security, providing a better climate and energy security.
Lightsource bp will likely appeal the decision.