Plans for a new solar farm in the countryside near Winchester have continued to divide opinion, gaining more than 100 objecting comments.

On May 19, 53 supporting comments had been submitted with just five against the proposal at Pitt Down south of Sarum Road, Sparsholt and Farley Mount.

However, on May 30 the supporters had edhed up to 68 and objectors had jumped to 108.

Sparsholt Parish Council is against the scheme, while Hursley Parish Council supports it. 

Developers Novus and Innova estimate that the solar farm would save 4,054 tonnes of carbon dioxide per year and power around 4,722 homes annually. It would operate for 40 years.

The comment from Sparsholt Parish Council said: “Solar Farms have a part to play in renewable energy and we don’t dispute how much this would contribute to the need to increase electricity to the grid. However, this application unfortunately is proposed to be constructed in too prominent a position and would have too much of a visual impact on the outstandingly beautiful countryside around it. It would have a massive visual impact on the nearby residents, visitors and a local business because of its elevated position on the undulating landscape.

“The applicant clearly recognises the deeply felt concerns and has proposed a reduced site in mitigation. However, the vandalism of the countryside is akin to daubing the Mona Lisa with acid and using a bit less acid does not mitigate the damage.”

READ MORE: Solar farm: Support for Pitt Down plans near Winchester

Raymond Andrews, of Sarum Road, said: “My wife and I strongly object to the above proposal, we are not against measures to combat climate change but this proposed solar farm is in the wrong place.

“The site is very scenic rolling countryside. The solar farm will be seen from many surrounding locations, as it is on rising ground it will be very difficult to screen, spoiling the views enjoyed by so many visitors to Crab Wood Nature Reserve and Farley Mount Country Park.

“We would urge you to take into account all the facts and refuse this application as it is in the wrong place.”

The comment from Hursley Parish Council said: “We are aware that the proposal is controversial, and even those in favour of solar often prefer them to be placed on rooftops. However, even using larger roofs or carparks, rooftop solar does not have the efficiencies and economies of scale of a solar farm feeding straight to the grid. 

“This array is relatively small in comparison to others in the district, and grid capacity is limited. Winchester City Council has set an ambitious target to achieve zero carbon, and at parish level we encourage residents to use low energy solutions.”

SEE ALSO: Winchester planning: Concerns over location of major solar farm

Dr Alex Clayton, of Culver Road, Winchester, said: "I regularly enjoy walk, running or cycling in the area and do not feel negatively affected by the visual impact of the site. 

"I actually see solar farms as a positive and hopeful addition to the landscape. I have greater concerns for the damage that climate change will cause to our landscape value if we do not seize opportunities like this."

For more details about the scheme, search 23/01025/FUL on Winchester City Council's online planning portal.