Proposals for a new solar farm in Lymm have received backing from councillors.
Lymm Community Energy's project will deliver a 2.5MW solar farm – featuring PV panels mounted on metal frames – constructed on land at Wildersmoor Hall Farm, on Higher Lane. The site covers approximately five hectares.
Objections had been lodged regarding the proposals, which were considered by Warrington Borough Council's development management committee last Thursday. However, following recommendations, the committee agreed to provide delegated authority to the development manager to grant planning permission, subject to conditions.
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According to a report presented to the committee, the site sits within the green belt and the immediately surrounding land comprises open green belt countryside.
Nevertheless, the report concluded that the site would satisfy the definition of 'grey belt' land. It noted that the proposals would utilise 'grey belt' land and would 'not fundamentally undermine' the purposes of the remaining green belt across the area of the plan.
"There is also an unmet need for renewable energy projects and the development is considered to be sustainably located," it added.
Russell Harris, speaking in opposition to the application, argued there is 'no proven need for this location'.
He also raised concerns about it establishing a precedent. Mr Harris continued: "If this field is allowed to slip through under the grey belt label, what's to stop the next? And the next? This isn't just about five hectares in Lymm, this is about the future of the green belt, full stop."
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He further stated 'once it's built, it's too late', explaining that when green belt is sacrificed for infrastructure that could be positioned elsewhere 'we don't get it back'.
Rachel Waggett, amongst the volunteer directors of Lymm Community Energy, remarked: "We're a group of local residents who joined Lymm Community Energy to use our expertise to deliver sustainable benefits to the place we live.
"We genuinely believe this project can deliver real value to the area. We're determined to continue to be good neighbours."
She additionally noted 'we are more than happy' to share the development of the construction management plan with neighbours and to collaborate 'very closely' with them throughout this process.
"We have no interest in upsetting local people," she added.