Key considerations

Visual impact

The site is located approximately 5 km from the North Wessex Downs Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).  Due to the nature of the built form and distance of the site, the project poses no adverse impact on the AONB.

The site is relatively flat, with mature trees and hedges surrounding the site; particularly from the north along Goring Lane and to the west along New Road.  The solar farm will be predominantly screened and will be difficult to see from passing vehicle traffic, however any gaps in the hedgerows will be strengthened to provide additional screening as far as possible. 

The EV charging station will likely be located to the north of Goring Lane and will be sign-posted from the road.

Highways

The access point for the solar farm will be through further discussions with the Highways Authority.  The access to the EV charging station will be from the existing access at James Lane.  

Biodiversity

Pitchkettle Wood, the non-statutory Local Wildlife Site, adjoins the site to the east.  The scheme proposals will not affect this site and the intention is to keep all mature tress on-site as well.  A net gain in biodiversity on our site will be achieved which will support enhanced wildlife in the area.

The proposal to plant species-rich grassland with wildflower margins will create new homes for nature and give a much-needed boost to help Britain’s beleaguered bees. The supplementation of existing vegetation and hedgerows will also see native planting delivered as part of the proposal and increase biodiversity across the site.

The team is also exploring further measures to allow local wildlife to thrive, including new bird and bat boxes and reptile hibernacula.

Farming

The proposal offers the ability to improve soil conditions as fields will be left fallow or for low-density grazing for a period of 40 years.

Sheep grazing will also be considered once the solar farm is operational.

Heritage

There are limited heritage assets within 1 km of the site. Existing vegetation on-site would be retained and enhanced where possible through the design of the proposals, which will help to soften the development and further reduce views into the Site.

Flood risk

The majority of the southern parcel of land is in Flood Zone 1, which means that there is virtually no risk of flooding on the site.  As such, the bulk of solar panels will be located in this area.

Decommissioning

At the end of its expected 40-year life, all elements of the scheme would be fully decommissioned, namely the solar farm, EV charging infrastructure, battery storage facilities and associated infrastructure such as the seating area etc.

The detailed decommissioning arrangements would be expected to be included in the list of planning conditions associated with any future planning permission.

Nearer the time of decommissioning, a decision would be made as to how much of the underground infrastructure should be taken away, given that the environmental disturbance may be significant if it is to be removed after 40 years.  That said, the project is completely reversible, and all aspects could be fully removed if that is the preferred option at the time. After decommissioning, farming could continue, with soil quality having been improved.