Plans for solar farm near M4 in Swindon unveiled by Biffa Waste Services
Former landfill site earmarked for eco-friendly energy production
Biffa Waste Services has revealed plans to develop a solar farm on a 6.5-hectare former landfill site near the M4 at Studley Grange in Swindon.
The proposed solar farm spans an area equivalent to nine football pitches and aims to harness sustainable energy by generating 2.2MW of electricity—sufficient to power between 600 and 800 homes.
Biffa notes the site's previous landfill use limits alternative land applications but underscores its transformation into modified grassland, wildflower strips, woodland areas, ponds, and low-grade agricultural grazing land, enriching biodiversity and ecological pathways.
Located south of the planned Swindon speedway stadium, the solar farm seeks to utilise the existing electricity grid connection as the landfill gas electricity output decreases.
Biffa Waste Services' planning application to Wiltshire Council emphasises the project's contribution to sustainable energy supply via photovoltaic panels on restored land.
The initiative provides a renewable solution on an under-utilised site while accommodating grid capacity.
The eight-week construction phase anticipates 100 heavy goods vehicle (HGV) movements, averaging four daily trips from the site—vehicle access would be via the B4005 south of the M4.
A decision from Wiltshire Council regarding the solar farm proposal is expected by the end of July.
The development signifies a step towards eco-friendly energy utilisation, aiming to repurpose land for the community's benefit and enhance environmental sustainability.