Villagers will be consulted on solar park
VILLAGERS from Backwell who could be affected by a proposal to build a solar park on the outskirts of the parish have been told they will be consulted about the plans.
Sunlec has not yet submitted a planning application to North Somerset Council, but the company is considering putting up solar panels on five fields on the edge of Backwell.
The park would cover around 18 hectares and would be close to three homes in the area - Oatfield Farm, Edson’s Farm and Old Farm.
After a meeting with representatives from the company, Backwell Parish Council assured residents that all properties affected by the plans would be sent information about the proposal and asked for their comments.
Residents are already voicing concerns about the proposal. Speaking at Backwell Parish Council meeting on Thursday, Malcolm Dowling, who was representing Mr Tippetts of Oatfield Farm, said: “Where the panels are going, whichever window he (Mr Tippets) looks out of he is going to be looking at 3m high panels all the way round the fields.
“He doesn’t want anything to spoil his view.”
Councillors are also concerned that the park would invade the green belt and suggest that other more appropriate sites be investigated.
Chairman Colin Pope said that he had asked the company if it would consider holding a public meeting for the people of Downside. The parish council is waiting for a response.
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