Shropshire Star

Plans submitted for new energy site in Telford

Plans are to be submitted to build another huge solar farm on land in Telford.

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Developer Vogt Solar has announced its plans for land at Cheshire Coppice Farm, in Bratton.

The near 19-acre development would see thousands of panels installed to meet the electricity requirements of, on average, around 1,500 UK homes per year.

Sarah Bower, for Vogt Solar, said it would be in place for 25 years.

"The land will continue to be grazed by sheep while energy is being generated, keeping the land in agricultural use," she said. "A mixed species grass meadow would be created beneath and around the solar panels, attracting insects and birds, and improving biodiversity.

"The solar farm will be temporary. It will be a dual use of electricity generation and grazing where appropriate continuing for 25 years.

"After that, all panels and associated cabling will be removed and recycled, and the fields can be used for arable farming or continue as grazing for livestock.

"We hope to submit a planning application to Telford & Wrekin Council in the near future."

The developer claims the farm would save around 2,150 tonnes of carbon dioxide each year, or more than 50,000 over the 25-year life of the development.

Mrs Bower said there would also be several knock-on community benefits.

"The business rates generated by the solar farm will go directly to the local authority," she said. "A community benefit fund would be set up to support local renewable energy, energy efficiency or other projects.

"Local companies and services will benefit during the construction period, for example accommodation for site workers."

The company is planning to hold a public exhibition of the plans at The Pheasant Inn, Admaston,

from 3pm to 7pm on June 2, with parish councillors able to drop in from 2pm to 3pm for a special preview.

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