Residents not about to 'cave' in over plan for solar farm near ancient site

RESIDENTS in a Derbyshire village fear for its future over “ridiculous” plans for a 120-acre solar farm just metres from an ancient hermit’s cave.

- By EDDIE BISKNELL

Plans from ABEI Energy would see the 120-acre solar farm built on agricultural fields at Boyah Grange, south of Dale Abbey and metres from woodland containing a protected ancient cave, known as The Hermitage, dating back to 1130.

A decision will be made by Erewash Borough Council in the next few months, with the 35.2 megawatt scheme said to be capable of providing clean energy for 14,000 homes a year.

Villagers in Dale Abbey, between Kirk Hallam and Spondon, say the solar farm ought to be built on brownfield land such as the Ratcliffe-onSoar Power Station or the former Stanton Ironworks site.

Paul Harvey, a campaigner and semiretired videographer who has lived in Dale Abbey for 47 years, said: “They keep doing things in this area that we think are stupid. There are just so many. If you don’t fight for it, you don’t keep it.

“T have some sympathy with the farmers, it is a tough way to make a living, but 120 acres is a hell of a lot. The landscape will never recover from that.

“T don’t think it will be visible from the village itself but the impact it will have on the village, including the landscape, footpaths and wildlife, will be significant. It is not just about solar panels either, it will be sevenfoot-high deer fencing, CCTV towers and floodlights. It will be like the prisoner of war camp Stalag Luft III. It is 75,000 solar panels and you just think ‘what next?!