Northumberland’s green energy takes a leap forward

Northumberland’s target for carbon neutral has taken a step forward as plans for two new solar farms are approved.

Permission has been granted for the construction, operation and management of solar farms on land at Low Horton Farm to the west of Blyth and land at Burnt House to the west of Bedlington which will accelerate Northumberland’s green energy generation.

The proposed developments will provide a significant amount of electricity from a clean, renewable source which will reduce carbon dioxide emissions annually by around 24,000 tonnes and meet the energy needs of approximately 30,000 homes each year.

Glen Sanderson, leader of the Council and portfolio holder for climate change, said: “This is a pivotal moment in our journey towards becoming a carbon neutral county. Solar panels are a low-cost sustainable option that will significantly increase our energy independence.

“I fully welcome these plans which will see greener energy being developed right on our doorstep, putting Northumberland firmly on the map as a pioneer for future energy generation as we transition to a low carbon future.”

The proposal has been backed by the Northumberland Local Plan as installation does not require the removal of any significant trees, groups of trees or hedgerows nor result in any direct or indirect effects on habitats and there is no significant harm to biodiversity identified on either of the planned sites.

Additionally, installers Bluefield Renewable Developments Ltd, plan to contribute around £350,000 for local community projects at each site where the panels will be located.

Jonathan Selwyn, managing director at Bluefield Development said: “We’re delighted to have received approval for our two solar farms in Northumberland, each of which will provide enough electricity to power the equivalent of 15,000 homes per year.

“Once constructed, we will manage the sites proactively to maximise environmental and biodiversity benefit, whilst sheep grazing will provide dual benefits of energy and agricultural production. We continue to work closely with the Council to positively shape the development of the solar farms and look forward to seeing our funding bring projects into fruition for the local community.”

A temporary construction compound will be sited adjacent to the track that leads from the A192 between the Three Horse Shoes and the Laverock Hall roundabouts in Blyth and adjacent to the existing Burnt House Farm complex in Bedlington. This will be removed and the land restored following the completion of the construction phase.

Northumberland County Council has a target of reaching carbon neutral status for the county by 2030 and has published a Climate Change Action Plan identifying how this might be achieved.

By Mark Adair – Correspondent, Bdaily

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