Representation by Kenneth Berry
- Date submitted
- 28 January 2024
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
I strongly object to the proposed Boom Solar Farm due to: 1.The very large size of the proposed development is totally inappropriate for a site so close to residential properties of the rural village,s of Wressle, Spaldington, Brind, Foggathorpe etc. The visual impact of such a huge industrial solar farm would fundamentally change the tranquil character of the area. We consider solar farms should be appropriately located on already industrialised land, on roof tops or adjacent to motorways, not on productive agricultural land, or in an area which will cause significant visual impact to the residents and those further afield who visit the area. 2. There are a number of residential properties located close to the site boundary. The development will have a significant adverse visual impact to these properties, especially from first floor windows. 3. Currently there are extensive open views of green fields and agricultural farmland. The development would create significant adverse visual impact along the footpaths and bridleways, with arrays of up to 3m high dark coloured solar panels which would tower above walkers blocking those views. The footpaths and bridleways would be separated from the site by approx 2.5m high security fence. The solar panels and fencing would destroy the wide, open views and create an unpleasant tunnel along the footpath and bridleway, degrading the amenity value. 4. The solar farm would significantly adversely impact the character and appearance of the landscape. The expansive tranquil landscape of open green fields with far reaching views would turn into a semi-industrial, utility-grade power complex, with fields of 3m high dark solar panels, shipping containers containing electrical equipment and security fencing. 5. The access route to the site has not yet been confirmed, but the roads through the villages are extremely narrow with houses directly on either side of the road. The villages are popular with walkers, cyclist, pedestrians, and horse riders and are already overburdened and totally unsuitable for large vehicles. There will also be significant transport disruption when the underground cabling is installed at the substation. 6. Large solar farms such as that being proposed have the potential to have a transformative effect on the land which would have consequences for local wildlife. For example, studies have suggested that birds can mistake the mirror like glare from solar panels for water, and collide into the panels when trying to land with deadly consequences. The RSBP have reported that insects that lay eggs in water may mistake solar panels for water bodies due to reflection of polarised light. Under certain circumstances insects have been found to lay eggs on the panel surfaces which has the potential to impact their reproductive biology. In addition, security fencing around the site could become a barrier to the movement of wild mammals and amphibians, and represent a collision risk for some bird species. 7. Given the extent of the proposed solar array, this development is likely to be visible across a very large area and could negatively impact heritage assets near the site such as Wressle Castle (English Heritage). I consider the proposed development contravenes The District Local Plan Policy which states that proposals affecting a heritage asset, or its setting, should protect or enhance those features which contribute to its special architectural or historic interest. 8. The construction stage will last many many months and will involve articulated lorries, HGV’s and vans transporting materials to site. The access route to the site hasn’t been confirmed, but the roads through the villages are extremely narrow and have houses directly on either side of the road which will be significantly impacted by the noise and vibration caused by the very large increase in HGV traffic during the construction phase. 9. The area is currently enjoyed by walkers, cyclists, local residents, and those travelling from further afield. This area is part of the popular East Yorkshire bridle and walkways, which may see less visitors to the area locally and further afield, potentially affecting business such as pubs and campsites. in neighbouring villages. The solar farm development would turn a pleasant and rural area into an industrialised area protected by CCTV cameras and high fencing with warning signs, which are far from welcoming to those who currently benefit from the quiet and unspoilt public access pathway and bridleways. 10. The construction of a solar farm the size of the proposed development at Wressle,Spaldinton, Brind, Foggathrope etc will cost Boom millions of pounds and it is very unlikely that the site will ever be returned to its current agricultural use, therefore there is no weight to any claims that the development is temporary and can be reversed. 11. The proposed development won’t benefit any of the local communities. The power generated by the solar panels will go straight to the national grid – this will not be a source of cheap electricity for people living in the vicinity of the solar farm. Residents living adjacent to the site will have a significant adverse visual impact from the site, whilst there will also be a loss of the rural amenity of the extensive open views along the footpath and bridleway crossing the site.