I do not really want to get into a drawn out debate as this has been covered in our exhibits, but I do not like to see misrepresentations, so I will counter some of the points in the recent RATS email.

1. It is in the greenbelt

This is true, and undeniable. However there are other solar developments in green belt land in neighbouring villages (specifically Haslingfield), and I do not believe they have caused us or the closer residents problems. It is also important to realise that this land is not being removed from the greenbelt, and is legally required to be returned to its current state after the 25 year planning term for the panels is completed.

2. It will put a physical block between two villages within the same parish

I do not understand this point, at the link between the two villages (the track) is untouched. The development has also been specifically shaped so as to not block any of the views between the villages at all.

3. It will blight the countryside which is currently enjoyed from our footpaths

This is a matter of personal opinion. It is true that whilst the screening hedges are maturing it will be possible to see parts of the development from footpaths.

4. Not enough research has been done on the impact the solar farm would have on the wildlife

I believe that a parcel of land which is managed for biodiversity and left unfarmed for 25 years will only have a positive effect on wildlife, especially when considered in addition to the alternative forms of power generation. Both the RSPB and National Trust have publicly stated their opinion that solar parks are a benefit to wildlife and biodiversity:

http://www.rspb.org.uk/community/ourwork/b/climatechange/archive/2014/04/29/giving-nature-a-home-on-solar-farms.aspx

http://ntpressoffice.wordpress.com/2014/04/28/national-trust-supports-new-guidance-to-turn-solar-farms-into-biodiversity-hotspots/

5. There are other more suitable sites locally which are not within the greenbelt and are by a main road or a railway line

This is unfortunately not true - if it were then the planning application would not have gone ahead. To connect into our local grid (which by the way means that our homes will be directly powered by renewable energy), there is a limited geographical area that the panels can be located. For our area, all of the land is in greenbelt.

Whilst I am writing this, I should also point out that as well as writing in with negative views, it is also possible to write and support the plan. If you consider that you would like to have your house using locally generated green energy, then you could use the same email address and reference supplied in the original RATS email.

David Walston

@OOOfarmer
@ushigumiUK
ooofarmer.wordpress.com
ushigumi.wordpress.com