25MW solar farm at Land At Spratsgate Lane, Siddington

What was proposed

A 25MW solar farm would include photovoltaic panels, associated equipment, access works, landscaping and an underground grid connection cable.

“This application seeks planning permission for the creation of a 25MW solar farm and associated development, including the creation of a cable route linking the site to an existing electricity substation located on Wilkinson Road on the southern edge of Cirencester. The application site measures approximately 52 hectares in size and consists primarily of a group of existing agricultural fields.”

“Tracker photovoltaic panels (providing 63,392 panels in total); • 75no. inverters: to enable the direct current (DC) generated by the panels to be converted to alternating current (AC) electricity; • 10no. transformers: to increase the generated electricity; • 1no. DNO control room; • 1no.”

Officer report

The site and surroundings

The approximately 52-hectare site comprises agricultural fields near Ewen, with hedgerows, woodland, nearby homes, listed buildings and areas at flood risk.

“This application relates primarily to a group of agricultural fields which are located to the east of the village of Ewen. The application fields are located approximately 350m from the aforementioned village at their closest point. The application site measures approximately 52 hectares in size and includes the aforementioned fields, as well as the site of a new substation, and the routes of a construction access road and an underground cable line.”

“The eastern boundary of the main body of the application site adjoins a Class C metalled highway (Spratsgate Lane). A native species hedgerow extends along the aforementioned site boundary. Agricultural fields lie to the east of Spratsgate Lane. The southern boundary of the site also extends alongside a Class C highway (Ewen Road). The aforementioned boundary is defined by a mix of hedgerows and trees.”

Officer report

What consultees said

Highways, landscape, trees, Natural England and the Lead Local Flood Authority raised no objection subject to safeguards, while biodiversity and flood information remained under review.

“Gloucestershire County Council Lead Local Flood Authority: No objection subject to condition.”

“Natural England: No objection subject to conditions.”

Officer report

Who spoke

A supporter sought construction controls and highlighted environmental benefits, while the agent addressed climate policy, drainage, landscaping, community benefits and reversibility.

What members considered

Members discussed panel orientation, landscaping, drainage, flooding, equipment locations, agricultural grades, fencing, noise and future restoration.

“Member Questions Members of the Committee asked a series of questions and noted that: • Solar panel orientation (east–west tracking) did not undermine the visual impact assessment. • Additional landscaping and buffering had been agreed along parts of the southern boundary to increase separation and reduce visual impact. Whilst maintenance access and hedgerow management would be needed, a 3.5m buffer was considered acceptable.”

“April Paintain, Environmental Health Officer for Noise and Amenities confirmed that a noise assessment and a noise management plan had been reviewed for the site. No significant noise concerns were identified following the relocation of inverter units. A planning condition was recommended requiring a revised noise management plan to be submitted within six months of completion of development…”

Minutes

The vote

Councillor Patrick Coleman proposed permitting the application, Councillor Nick Bridges seconded it, and the committee agreed.

“Councillor Patrick Coleman proposed PERMITTING the application subject to no objection from the Biodiversity Officer and the Environment Agency and the completion of a S106 legal agreement covering a Biodiversity Net Gain monitoring fee…”

Minutes