22552
the development will consist of planning permission for a period of 10 years to construct and complete a Solar PV Energy Development with a total site area of 124.07 hectares, to include: Inverter/Transformer Substations, modules, solar PV ground mounted on support structures, temporary construction compounds, internal access tracks, security fencing, electrical cabling and ducting, CCTV and other ancillary infrastructure, drainage additional landscaping and habitat enhancement as required and associated site development works relating to the access of the site. The solar farm will be operational for 35-years. A Natura Impact Statement has been prepared in respect of this planning application. Significant further information/revised plans submitted on this application
Core Refusal Reason
The Inspector recommended that the Planning Authority's decision to refuse be overturned and permission be granted. While the local authority refused the application based on landscape impact (HER POL 52), the Inspector concluded that the development's scale and nature are acceptable given the site's high degree of visual enclosure and the critical national need for renewable energy infrastructure.
Decision Maker's Conclusion
- The proposed development is consistent with national, regional, and local policy objectives to transition to a low-carbon society and achieve 80% renewable electricity by 2030.
- The 'Central Lowlands' landscape has a moderate sensitivity and a robust structure of mature hedgerows and undulating topography that provides significant visual screening, allowing the development to be absorbed without unacceptable visual intrusion.
- Potential adverse impacts on residential amenity (glint, glare, and noise), traffic safety, and the local ecology can be effectively managed and abated through the implementation of specific mitigation measures and planning conditions.