PLANS for a proposed renewable energy plant at Chelworth will go on public display next week.

The proposals for a solar farm have been put forward by the Wiltshire Wildlife Trust (WWT) and Bath and West Community Energy (BWCE) for land next to Braydon Lane, near the Chelworth Industrial Estate.

The bank of two-metre high solar panels would have the potential to generate one megawatt of electricity, which could power 225 homes by converting sunlight directly into electricity.

It is estimated this would save the equivalent of 11,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide during the plant’s 20-year life.

WWT director Gary Mantle said: "The local generation of electricity from solar panels will help Wiltshire reduce its greenhouse gas emissions and play its part in mitigating climate change."

The 2.5-hectare site, which is owned by WWT, is accessed from the industrial estate and does not form part of the Blakehill Farm Nature Reserve.

Chairman of BWCE Pete Carpenter added: "We are pleased to be involved in this exciting project that will be offering the local community and WWT members the opportunity to own and invest in the generation of clean electricity."

The public consultation and exhibition of the plans will take place between 1pm and 8pm on Thursday, November 15, at Cricklade House in Cricklade.