Public inquiry into Lime Down solar park proposal resumes amid protest
Protesters express concerns over environmental and community impacts
The public inquiry into the proposed Lime Down solar park in north Wiltshire resumed today at the National Self Build & Renovation Centre, Swindon, with demonstrators protesting the project outside.
Island Green Power aims to construct a 500MW solar-and-battery facility between Malmesbury and the M4, projecting it to supply electricity to 115,000 homes annually.
However, opponents argue the industrial nature of the development, spanning 35 square miles of rural landscape, threatens farmland and pressurises local roads and communities.
The inquiry initially opened in April, followed by further hearings from late June to early July, and continues with discussions on environmental impacts, traffic concerns, and management plans.
Upcoming sessions will examine socio-economics, ecology, compulsory acquisition, and the Development Consent Order required to build the facility.
Among the 5,000 evidences submitted was Ann Hawker's contribution, raising apprehensions about potential compulsory acquisition affecting her farmland near Hullavington.
Phil Moore, once a Sherston resident, expressed fears over community disruption, having moved due to the project’s proposed impact, as evidenced by his local business survey results.
County pressure from Wiltshire Council underscores traffic concerns, citing underestimations in HGV movement projections and transportation challenges associated with the site.
Ultimately, the project's fate rests with the Secretary of State for the Environment, Angela Eagle, with a decision anticipated late this year or early next year.
The examination is set to conclude on 21st October, followed by inspector recommendations to Dame Angela.