An application has been submitted to Wiltshire Council to extend the lifespan of a solar park in Shurnhold from 25 to 40 years.
The solar park is located at Roundponds Farm to the west of Melksham and to the north-east of Broughton Gifford, surrounded by rural, agricultural and farmland.
The first electricity was generated from the solar park in June 2015. The solar panels generate up to 13MW of electricity.
The solar park was originally due to operate for 25 years. However, a recent proposal has been submitted by the company Centrica PLC to extend its lifespan for a further 15 years which, if approved, could see the park in operation until 2055.
Whilst Melksham Town Council has supported the extension, Melksham Without Parish Council has objected to it, citing there are already numerous solar and battery storage facilities built or planned in the area, which could exacerbate the overall impact on the community.
The application is due to be decided by Wiltshire Council by 11th November. For further information, search PL/2024/07506 on the Wiltshire Council planning portal.
