CAMPAIGNERS are vowing to do all they can to stop a solar farm being built near Southam.
TGC Renewables Ltd is looking to develop the farm – roughly the size of 11 football pitches – in countryside overlooking Bascote and Long Itchington.
But the proposals have been met by criticism from Stop Bascote Solar Residents’ Group, who say the farm – made up of 14,500 panels and earmarked for ground alongside the Grand Union Canal – would damage the area forever.
Around 200 people expressed their concerns at consultation event in March arguing the 20 acre site at Manor Farm on Bascote Road would be an eyesore and add to already traffic-choked roads.
But despite pulling the plug on plans for a solar farm on a nearby site in Long Itchington back in January following huge public opposition, developers opted to push on with the latest plans.
Stop Bascote Solar Residents’ Group spokesman Duncan Jones is calling on residents make their thoughts known through the public consultation.
He said: “We are not opposed to renewable energy but the proposed site of this development is completely inappropriate and the solar farm would have an irrevocable impact on the landscape surrounding Long Itchington and Bascote.
“The development would be situated beside the Grand Union Canal, which as well as being a popular recreational spot for walkers, runners, cyclists and fishermen, it also attracts tourists who contribute to the economy of the region.
“Tourists want to travel on the canal through unspoilt countryside but that attraction would disappear if this development goes ahead.
“We also believe the solar farm would have a detrimental impact on the recreational lives of locals and visitors so if you value the wonderful countryside which surrounds us, we would encourage you to register your objections by July 24.”
Residents can make their thoughts known online at www.stratford.gov.uk/eplanning or by writing letters to Stratford District Council.
The application is currently undergoing a consultation period and is likely to be considered later this year.
More information about the application can be found on the group’s Facebook page ‘Stop Bascote Solar Residents.’
