Residents in Staffordshire Moorlands are one step closer to halting the construction of a solar farm near Lower Tean, as concerns mount over the area’s landscape and environmental impact.
The proposed 49.9MW facility at Lower Tean Leys Farm faced a recommendation for approval by planning officers at Staffordshire Moorlands District Council. However, the council voted against granting permission, citing worries about the saturation of solar farm developments in the area.
Although East Staffordshire Borough Council also needs to review the application, Staffordshire Moorlands councillors have already opposed it. The proposed solar farm, intended to power approximately 11,500 homes, faced resistance due to the cumulative effect of existing and planned solar projects nearby.
Currently, there’s a 11.5MW solar farm built just over 500 meters away, with permissions granted for additional facilities in close proximity. The influx of solar developments has triggered concerns about traffic congestion during construction and its impact on local roads.
Critics have also highlighted the loss of agricultural land and its potential effects on wildlife and food production. Despite arguments in favor of renewable energy and stable income for farmers, objections persisted over the project’s long-term implications for the landscape and community well-being.
Committee members voted against the proposal due to concerns about visual impact and the project’s adverse effects on residents and agricultural land. The decision reflects broader apprehensions about the proliferation of solar farms and their impact on local environments and food security.