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Message: <blockquote data-quote="Had.enough" data-source="post: 3030423" data-attributes="member: 87651">I attended the consultation for this proposed solar farm last night.. the plan is to convert the attached image to a Solar farm, i.e. 2.5 metre high panels surrounded by security fencing and "hedge". With improvements to biodiversity designed into the farm.What was a public footpath thru the open countryside will be effectively a tunnel between two security fences and hedge.Surprisingly, only the local Wildlife trust seem to be requesting rigour and re-assurances about the impact to wildlife and the surrounding area which includes an SSSI. County Council, Borough Council, Natural England, all seemed to be in favour so far, stating "not likely to have any adverse effect"  if I'm reading the planning application correctly. Also the RSPB have voiced their approval of Solar Farms, although they express concern about farms located in sensitive areas.<a href="http://s0.geograph.org.uk/geophotos/03/26/71/3267174_b8e51dfd.jpg" target="_blank">http://s0.geograph.org.uk/geophotos/03/26/71/3267174_b8e51dfd.jpg</a>Currently has breeding Skylarks, Stonechats, Linnets, Yellowhammers. Has a good track record for all the regular migrants in Autumn, especially good for Whinchat, Wheatear, Redstart, Tree Pipits. Wintering Snipe, Fieldfare etc.I dread to think what would remain after someone has come in and "improved" the area with nest boxes, bat boxes, and a wildflower meadow. However, I have faith in the local Wildlife Trust to put their case across. Worth keeping an eye on what happens here, wherever you are in UK.. This seems to be a growing trend with many applications springing up. There are 5 within 10 mile radius of me, a couple more across the county line in Dorset. What you see as a good place for birds and birdwatching is being eyed up  as "Low Grade" agricultural and a lump sum profit by others.Worth noting also, that the location was extremely vague, until the latter stages of the planning application. Blink, and you would certainly have missed it. Also, judging by the responses I read, the Wildlife Trust were initially missed out of the consultation. Finally, the press reports all mentioned panels 2.5 mm above ground level. They are in fact 2.5 metres above ground level. Funny how all the "errors" work in their favour!</blockquote>

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