Delight as North Cotswolds solar farm plans thrown out (From Wilts and Gloucestershire Standard)

Mickleton solar farm plans thrown out

3:00pm Sunday 17th February 2013 in News By George Wright

CHEERS were let out from a packed public gallery on Wednesday after plans for a 25-acre solar farm resembling a “World War II prison camp” were thrown out.

The plans for 16,000 solar panels at Norton Hall in Mickleton had been recommended by case officer Martin Perks but the potential negative effect on the area was enough for councillors to reject the plans.

Cllr Joe Harris supported the decision, saying the planned development bore resemblance to a “WWII prison camp.”

Martin Gittins of Mickleton Parish Council told the meeting the area's green fields would be "butchered by these ugly structures."

Mickleton residents, some of which came equipped with placards, filled the public gallery and met both Mr Gittins and resident Andrew Crump's speeches with loud applause.

Ward councillor Lynden Stowe also spoke against the plans saying, "We have one very strong reason to refuse this - it's called democracy."

"The people of Mickleton do not like this proposal being forced upon them and a large number of objections that have been received."

Resident Susie Wiltshire attended the hearing was delighted with the result, saying "it felt like a case of David vs. Goliath."

"We are so pleased were weren't steam-rollered by a big company and that they listened to public opinion and the effect it would have on residents."

"We've been dragging our children around leafletting and it has taken up our lives but it's really worth it."

However, speaking of the upcoming appeal Mrs Wiltshire said, "This is only round one and we need to make our point even more forcefully in round two."