Solar farm plan for 'significant' historical land

Critics of a proposed solar farm say the development would sit within an "extremely significant" historic landscape, with evidence of prehistoric, Roman and medieval activity.

Energy firm Enviromena has submitted plans to build on farm land between Bedale and Exelby in North Yorkshire.

However, residents and consultees have questioned the suitability of the land, urging North Yorkshire Council to ensure an environmental impact report is drawn up.

A spokesperson for Historic England said the location of the proposed site, close to the boundary of the Grade II registered park and gardens at Thorp Perrow, was in an area that demanded "a high level of archaeological assessment."

"In very simple terms, the application site sits within a landscape shaped by human activity over a considerable time-depth," they said.

"This proposal would involve structures which could impact upon elements which contribute to the significance and enjoyment of landscapes of historic or cultural importance for many years."

The submission has prompted more than 80 objections, according to the Local Democracy Reporting Service.

Enviromena has filed a request to the council for a ruling on whether an environmental impact assessment would be needed with any future planning application.

It says the development would help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and could play an important role in reducing the decline in biodiversity.

However, critics claim it could have an adverse environmental impact instead, with one member of the public citing its "size, location, and potential cumulative and irreversible impacts on agricultural land".

North Yorkshire Local Access Forum said it viewed the application with "grave concern" because the access would be along a narrow public lane frequently used by those without a car, which it said was unsuitable for large construction vehicles.

It added: "Two footpaths are running through the site and the public pleasure of these when surrounded by solar panels would be seriously diminished.

"We realise that the application is to determine the need for a screening assessment at this stage, but would suggest that as the site would not be able to meet the constraints of existing highway law, the application does not proceed further."

Two submissions supporting the scheme, which highlight the need for clean energy sources, have also been filed with the council.

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