Padbury Brook Solar Farm Appeal Fund

Hello,

We’re all keen on renewable energy, but at the start of solar PV 15 years ago, the aim was local generation for local consumption. So smaller systems, generally on roofs, or sensibly sized field arrays covering a few acres. These did not have a huge effect on local wildlife or the local population, and were liked by most people, as the benefits were clear.

What is now being proposed outside Stratton Audley and elsewhere is huge solar parks, covering hundreds or even thousands of acres of productive farmland and, whatever the required ecology studies may say, disrupting not only wildlife, but our local countryside amenity.

What’s worse is that there is enough roof space for most of our solar needs to be provided without losing valuable land.

The Stratton Audley solar park (Padbury Brook), covers 140 acres of farmland that the former local farmer says is clearly good productive land. It has produced above average crops over many years and yet we are being told that simply because it’s “grade 3” farmland it’s acceptable to cover it in solar panels.

The developer, who stands to make a profit of more than £4 million if the site goes ahead, had their planning application refused, but will undoubtedly appeal. We need to have a strong argument to fight that appeal and have commissioned a further landscape survey, as we don’t have confidence in the value of the one produced by the developer. We have engaged a consultant and the total cost is likely to be around £6,000.

We have some pledges from local people, but need to fund the rest and hope that you can get involved by helping us to reach our total.

Thank you,

Stratton Audley Parish Council