Isle of Wight planners decide fate of large solar farm

Isle of Wight Council planners were due to decide yesterday (September 5) whether a controversial proposed largest solar farm on the island will go ahead.

The scheme by Ridge Clean Energy for the Sunny Oaks Renewable Energy Park on the outskirts of Wootton was recommended for approval by the council's planning officers.

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The 27-hectare project - Barnfield solar farm - would reportedly be capable of generating enough energy for about 9,300 homes but has been met by local opposition.

There have been over 100 objections from residents, the Island's MP Bob Seely and local town and parish councils.

Complaints include that it would be visually intrusive and increase the risk of flooding.

Seely reportedly said its "industrial character" was incompatible with the "rural setting".

But planning officers said it would lead to significant positive economic, social and environmental benefits, outweighing the minimal to moderate negative impacts.

The proposals cover fields owned by Briddlesford Lodge Farm, near Butterfly World, which would be used for livestock grazing between July and October.

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