Staffordshire solar farm set for approval amid concerns

A solar farm capable of powering up to 8,000 homes a year looks set to be approved amid dozens of objections from residents concerned about its impact on the countryside.

The proposed Leaford Solar Farm would cover about 69 hectares (170 acres) of farmland near Blythe Bridge, between Stallington and Saverley Green, in Staffordshire.

Developers said the scheme would make a significant contribution to renewable energy generation and help tackle climate change, while opponents fear the project is inappropriate for the green belt.

Plans for the 30-megawatt (MW) development have been recommended for approval ahead of a specialist Stafford Borough Council planning committee meeting on Tuesday.

The site would still be able to remain in agricultural use through sheep grazing beneath the solar panels.

Developer Renewable Energy Systems, which submitted a planning application for the project more than two years ago, is the world’s largest independent renewable energy company and has delivered more than 23GW of energy, according to planning documents.

‘No benefits’

However, the plans have attracted more than 50 objections from residents and local groups, including Fulford Parish Council.