Conservative councillor for Devizes Rural West, Tamara Reay, has welcomed the news that the One Tree Hill solar farm has been refused by Wiltshire Council.
The proposal to build a 49.9 MW solar farm to the south of Potterne Park Farm, near Devizes, was initially submitted in December 2023. Since then, Potterne Solar Action Group, have campaigned tirelessly against this proposal which would see a local green space filled with solar panels.
The plans, which have been revised multiple times by applicant Potterne Solar Project Limited, suggest building the solar farm with a permanent on-side grid connection hub, inverters, underground cabling, internal tracks, and environmental enhancements for a period of 50 years.
Cllr Reay described the decision as "brilliant news".
"The refusal notice is extremely comprehensive in the reasons for refusal including the harm to local landscape, loss of “best and most versatile” agricultural land, the impact on biodiversity and an unacceptable impact on highways."
Cllr Reay thanked everyone involved with Potterne Parish Council and Potterne Solar Action Group "for all their work over many months to review planning documents and make many detailed submissions to the planning process about why One Tree Hill is the wrong place for a solar installation."
But she warned that it is possible the Applicant will consider appealing against the decision to the Planning Inspectorate.
"Given the comprehensive reasons for refusal - I really hope that the applicant decides that it is simply not worth it. I will keep residents updated."
Meanwhile, the fight against the Potterne Park Farm application continues - this one is still being considered by Planning Officers and Potterne Solar Action Group is about to submit a further response to the FIFTH consultation.
One Tree Hill gets its name from the elm that was planted in 1815 by General Hunt Grubbe to commemorate the battle of Waterloo. Today an oak tree marks this iconic spot which has been a meeting place for generations and is a lifeline for many, bringing so many health benefits since the pandemic to daily walkers, cyclists, and horse riders from surrounding villages and Devizes. The iconic landmark tree which sits on the horizon can be seen from miles away, including Etchilhampton Hill in the North Wessex Downs AONB.
You can find out more and support the preservation of our beautiful Wiltshire countryside at https://stoppotternesolar.com/.
