Shropshire Star

Bridgnorth solar farm plans spark an outcry

Residents have come out in force against plans to build a 20-acre solar farm near Bridgnorth.

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The solar farm, which could also include a mounted CCTV system and security fence, could power up to 1,200 homes.

The plans for the solar farm, by Green Switch Developments Ltd are for High Trees Farm and include an electricity sub-station.

But local residents are up in arms against the proposals, saying they believe the area's green spaces should be protected.

Residents attended a meeting of Tasley Parish Council to voice their opposition to the plans and have formed a group called Keeping Tasley Green to protest against the scheme.

John Jenkins, from Tasley, whose land backs on to the proposed solar farm, said he feared the solar farm would have a detrimental effect on the area

He added: "The parish councillors unanimously opposed this application, saying the location of a solar farm at this site will have an adverse effect on the character and scenic quality of the landscape and will have a detrimental impact on neighbouring properties."

The solar farm would see cabling feed into the control building from across the site, which would be housed within the cavities of the building's foundations.

Materials for the solar farm could see 100 lorries making deliveries for up to four months.

The components would be carried from a track bordering the site, off Church Lane.

The agents said the road would be suitable to support the vehicles using the local road network during construction.

One resident, who wished to remain anonymous, said: "My objection is based on the location and scale of the proposed development in the beautiful countryside of South Shropshire.

"The unspoilt countryside of the county is one of its greatest assets - a great draw for tourists.

"The large bright reflective panels, covering 20 acres of land surrounded by a steel security fence almost eight feet high will ruin this area close to one of England's prettiest market towns."

So far, 171 public comments have been made on the plans on Shropshire Council's website, 169 of which are objections.

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