Representation by Penelope Anne Le Besque
- Date submitted
- 10 April 2024
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
I object to the proposed Byers Gill Solar development, as it will have a profoundly adverse effect on the daily lives of numerous local residents in the surrounding villages of Bishopton, Carlton, Redmarshall, Whitton, Stillington, Sadberge, Great Stainton, and Little Stainton. The transformation of our cherished rural environment into an industrial power generation site is unacceptable and has been met with widespread concern and overwhelming objection from the affected communities. One of the most glaring issues is the lack of consultation with the community. Despite detailed objections submitted via Darlington Borough Council to the National Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIP), there has been a deafening silence from the company behind the project RWE. Requests for meaningful engagement and dialogue have been met with refusals from RWE. 300+ questionnaires, registering objections which were completed by local residents in May 2023 have gone unanswered. This disregard for the concerns of the local people is unacceptable and undermines the principles of democratic decision-making. The sheer number of solar power generation schemes in such a relatively small radius of 5km is staggering. With a total of eight developments already either approved, in operation, or under construction—namely Gately Moor, Longpasture, Whinfield, Letch Lane, Thorpe Bank, Low Middelfield Farm, Burtree Lane, and Hunger Hill Farm, the cumulative impact cannot be ignored. Byers Gill, on top of these developments will be another 2000 acres of industrial landscape. Despite this, RWE's documentation dismisses any consideration of cumulative effects, stating it is not an issue and demonstrating a blatant disregard for the well-being of the communities affected. The issue of cumulative impact in this area has been raised repeatedly in parliament by MP Matt Vickers during adjournment debates, yet responses from RWE have been to state that the Planning Inspectorate will make the final decision. This lack of transparency and accountability is deeply concerning and undermines trust in the democratic process. The Byers Gill Solar development represents a grave threat to the quality of life and well-being of local residents. The lack of consultation, coupled with the disregard for cumulative effects, is unacceptable and must be addressed. I urge the Planning Inspectorate to reject outright this ill-conceived project and prioritise the interests and concerns of the communities it will impact.