Green Hill Solar Farm: Stuart Andrew, MP, speaks up for local residents

Whether for, against or ambivalent, this article – with its supporting video – is worth looking at.

In particular, between the 5:15 and 5:45 points in the video, Stuart reiterates the opinion held by many residents who support the concept of solar power, but oppose the proposed sites.

That opinion being, that solar panels should be placed on the roofs of warehouses*, industrial units, storage facilities, shopping malls, covered car parks and the like. And not, as is currently proposed, on greenfield and viable agricultural land.

Find out more here.

* According to 2022 data from the Office of National Statistics, there are 3,200 transport and storage premises in West Northamptonshire, with a further 2,700 in North Northamptonshire. So, 5,900 flat roofs. Each of at least 300,000 square feet (source: Savills). 300,000 square feet = almost 7 acres. So, 7 x 5,900 = 41,300 acres.

With this sort of acreage already available, should anyone really be talking about using greenfield and viable agricultural land for solar-energy generation?

Annual Holcot Parish Meeting; Village Hall; Thursday 16 April; 6.30pm

This is not a Parish Council meeting, but an ‘open-to-everyone’ annual event that gives you the opportunity to have your say.

There will be presentations and briefings from invited guest speakers including:
Helen Howard/Andy Leighton, WNC Highways
The Rt Hon Stuart Andrew, MP, Member of Parliament for the Daventry Constituency
Councillor Cecile Irving-Smith, WNC Rural East Ward
Councillor Chris Bailey will update us on the Green Hill Solar Farm development
Councillor Chris Bailey will also review the activities of the Parish Council over the past year and the focus for the current year.

You will be able to ask questions, share your views and raise any concerns.

Further details and a full agenda are now available on the Parish Council website at holcot-pc.gov.uk and in the notice board on Main Street, Holcot.

If you would like to make a presentation or promote your cause, please contact the Chair of the Parish Council on cllr.chris.bailey@holcot-pc.gov.uk