Concerns raised over proposed solar farm

A proposal for a large solar farm in Cornwall has been criticised by some residents and local councils.

Speedwell Solar Farm Ltd - owned by Statkraft - has applied for planning permission for a 40MW solar farm at Lanyon Farm, north of Gwinear, near Hayle.

The applicant said the development would be operational for 40 years and had the potential to power the equivalent of 12,000 homes.

It is scheduled to be brought before Cornwall Council's strategic planning committee on 13 February.

Concerns raised by objectors include the loss of agricultural land and harm to the setting of a Grade II listed farmhouse.

Gwinear-Gwithian Parish Councillor Lionel Pascoe has also raised concerns the facility could lead to potential flooding of nearby Angarrack, and issues over road access.

A report to the planning committee highlighted the development would be temporary and fully reversible and recommended approval.

"In this case, it is considered that the benefits of the proposed development in terms of significant renewable energy provision during a climate emergency (which should not be understated) outweighs the harm caused," the report said.

Tim MacKellar, Statkraft's project manager, said: "Our proposals for Speedwell Solar Farm will help contribute to increasing our energy security in the UK.

"By producing more electricity at home, we reduce our reliance on expensive oil and gas from abroad, which will help keep everyone's bills lower.

"Speedwell will also deliver over £600,000 for local community projects and initiatives over the lifetime of the scheme," he added.

A total of 96 comments were received on the proposals, 33 in favour and 63 against, reports the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Gwinear-Gwithian Parish Council objected on a number of grounds, including loss of agricultural and food production land.

Hayle Town Council said: "This best and most versatile agricultural land needs to used for food, not electricity."

The parish council of St Erth also objected.

A spokesperson said: "The land proposed for this solar farm is on Grade III best and most versatile land that can be double cropped, which is contrary to Cornwall Council's policies and should be safeguarded for food production not electricity."

The Lead Local Flood Authority (LLFA) originally objected to the application but has since withdrawn its concerns following discussions with the applicant and their consultant, with the suggestion of conditions if approved.

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