Billionaire wants solar farm to power mansion

A BILLIONAIRE renovating a 100-bed mansion has submitted plans to build a 40-acre solar farm on his estate.

- LAUREN BEAVIS

Hedge fund owner Chris Rokos wants to transform his 18th-century residence in Marlborough, Wiltshire, to ensure it maintains a “long-term and sustainable future”.

Mr Rokos's representatives have submitted plans to Wiltshire Council to turn 40 out of his 4,500 acres at Savernake estate into a solar farm.

The proposed plot, situated on the northern boundary of the extensive plot, is currently used as pasture for dairy cows and for producing silage.

The site adjoins a public footpath which runs between the hamlet of Durley and St Katharine’s Church and primary school though it is shielded from view by trees.