Representation by Pam Orme
- Date submitted
- 8 January 2023
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
I am completely opposed to this project on the basis that: 1. It covers too large an area being nearly 4 times larger than any existing solar site in the country – and placed in the middle of the smallest county in the country too! 2. It will have an adverse effect on the flaura and fauna that has been developed over centuries & simply cannot be replaced by planting new trees or making artificial runs for wild animals. That’s excluding the deer of course who, as they are not a protected species, will no doubt injure themselves trying to negotiate a way through the mass of panels etc. 3. Hundreds – if not thousands of 3.5-metre-high panels, 84 containers housing inverters/transformers and a 2-metre security fence with security lighting and cameras will turn our beautiful tranquil countryside into an industrial estate. A tragedy & an absolute eyesore. 4. It will bring huge traffic problems to our tiny roads and lanes. They are not suitable for the 54 – 2 way HGV lorry movements each day. Nor are they suitable for the increased traffic caused by up to 400 workers on site. We will have cyclists and horse riders being put at risk – along with young children accessing their schools. 5. Those 400 workers on site will virtually create another village – for 2 years at the very minimum – and the cars/vans & lorries they will be using will add to the traffic problems & risks. 6. The destruction of excellent quality agricultural land at a time when we cannot produce enough food in the UK is unbelievably bizarre – and all because the storage facilities happen to be available. 7. But – just how much energy will be produced in practice? Given that reports show that solar panels are the least effective way to collect energy. And if they are deemed to be the preferred way forward – why doesn’t the Government back the use of them and encourage manufacture of the panels in Great Britain – rather than having to rely on China to produce them & let a Canadian company, [Redacted], that is currently under investigation – manage the project? 8. There are no plans for safe battery storage which is a huge safety concern.This Summer we have had at least three field fires already due to the extreme heat. What reputable reliable developer would leave this crucial element omitted from their plans “at this time”. It indicates an uncaring and irresponsible attitude.