Local councillors have approved plans for a new solar farm in North Yorkshire, despite concerns from residents that the project could surround a nearby village with multiple energy developments.
The strategic planning committee of North Yorkshire Council gave the green light to the project, which will be built on farmland near East Cowton, close to Northallerton.
The proposed solar farm will cover 38 hectares of agricultural land and is expected to generate enough electricity to power more than 10,000 homes. The project has been put forward by East Cowton Solar Farm Limited.
However, the plan faced opposition from East Cowton Parish Council and several local residents. Critics argued that the increasing number of solar developments in the area could significantly change the rural landscape.
Local councillor Annabell Wilkinson highlighted these concerns during the meeting, warning that East Cowton could become surrounded by solar farms. She noted that multiple projects have already been approved or proposed in recent years.
According to reports, another solar farm application was submitted for land east of the village last year. A separate development to the north of East Cowton was approved in 2015. The village itself had a population of 482 in the 2021 census.
Despite these concerns, the committee unanimously approved the new proposal. Councillor Caroline Goodrick supported the project but suggested a more balanced approach to renewable energy development.
