Winchester planning: Bishop's Waltham solar farm plans approved

The facility, which will have an estimated 53,333 panels, will be at Locks Farm, Botley Road, near Bishop's Waltham.

The scheme was approved by Winchester City Council's planning committee today (Wednesday March 15), with the discussions lasting for more than two hours.

The committee heard it is estimated that the farm will provide renewable energy to power 5,500 homes for one year.

The solar farm will be in operation for 40 years after which the land will be cleared and returned to agricultural use.

Six members of the committee voted in its favour with one, Cllr Caroline Horrill, voting against.

READ MORE: Romsey planning: Medieval moat on the site of dog training plan

Nearby resident Emma Rosling urged the committee to vote against it. She said: “Some solar farms actually contribute to the carbon burden of the planet.

“It will be very visible to surrounding properties and passers-by. We can't understand why the applicant didn't engage with neighbours of the site. We feel that the benefits do not outweigh the harm this will cause.”

Shedfield Parish Council were also opposed. Vice-chairman David Ogden said: “It has to be in the right place. This site has very good views. The need for renewable energy does not necessarily override environmental protection."

Bishop's Waltham Parish Council originally objected to the proposal, but after the developer's consultation, they decided to support it. 

Josie Wood said: “This is a planning application we have spent many hours considering. This will provide a source of renewable energy but it will have an impact on some residents. We objected to this in 2021, but after significant changes we are now supporting it. It would lead to less than substantial harm.”

James Jamieson, from the developer Intelligent Alternatives, said: “It's a suitable site for a solar farm. We have strong support from officers and consultees. There will be substantial bio-diversity benefits.”

SEE ALSO: Michelin star chef has high praise for Hampshire country pub

Mr Jamieson was questioned about the consultation with nearby residents. 
He said: “We approached residents directly and it was clear there were differences in opinion. This is actually the smallest project we are working on at the moment. We worked with the parish council and amended the scheme. I don't think it would be fair to say there was no engagement.”

The majority of councillors were satisfied with the application, despite the concerns raised.

Cllr Jane Rutter said: “The scheme has had careful scrutiny. It will increase biodiversity and will be well screened. I don't think the impact is enough for us to turn this down. I'm aware and sympathetic to the neighbours, but I believe you will get used to the solar panels.”

However, Cllr Horrill voted against the scheme. She said: “We're all in favour of solar farms. This is a balancing act. It was shocking to hear about the lack of interaction with the local properties. It showed a level of arrogance. The support for this came from people who won't be directly impacted. I'm disappointed there isn't a better resolution for the residents.”