An inquiry appeal launched for a refused solar farm is to begin next week.
The planning inspectorate’s inquiry event for Renewable Energy Solutions (RES)’s Longhedge Solar Farm, proposed to be built between Thoroton and Hawksworth, begins at the Rushcliffe Arena, West Bridgford, at 10am on Monday (June 10).
It will run for six days, in which time expert evidence may be presented and witnesses cross-examined.
The solar farm plan is subject to the most formal of the appeal procedures, the inquiry, due to the size and complexity of the matter.
Following the conclusion of the inquiry, the inspector will consider the evidence given and prepare their appeal decision. It can take a number of weeks, and is hoped to be issued by mid August.
The planned solar farm, which was refused by Rushcliffe Borough Council, was to cover 233 acres of land close to Hawksworth and Thoroton.
RES claimed the solar farm “would be capable of generating around 49.9MW of clean, low cost renewable electricity, enough to power approximately 15,2001 homes”, and had chosen the location based on its proximity to a viable grid connection and lack of environmental, archaeological and landscape designations.
It had also faced opposition from residents in the Hawksworth and Thoroton Action Group, who feared the fear the area would become dominated by solar farms, and had concerns about the use of farmland for solar infrastructure.
A statement on RES’ website explains: “Following Rushcliffe Borough Council’s refusal of the application for Longhedge Solar Farm in March 2023, RES lodged an appeal in September 2023.
“RES, as applicant, consider the original design of the scheme fits sensitively into the existing landscape whilst maximising the low carbon, low-cost electricity generation.”
It also stated it had made some changes to its plans based on “feedback from statutory consultees and the community”.
It has removed some solar infrastructure directly north of Hawksworth village, as well as made minor changed to the hedgerow planting scheme.
Rushcliffe Borough Council refused the application due to the scale of the development having a “significant adverse impact on landscape, character and visual amenity” of the area, and it not contributing to the “preservation or enhancement of the setting of the Hawksworth and Thoroton Conservation Areas” or the listed buildings in those areas.
The decision stated: “Whilst the significant benefits of the proposal in terms of renewable energy are acknowledged the public benefits do not outweigh the harm to the assets of national and local heritage value.”
