A significant backlash has emerged against plans for a new solar farm in Thurstaston, Merseyside, with over 3,300 people signing a petition opposing the development. The local council, Wirral Council, has responded to the proposal from Chint Solar, a subsidiary of the Chinese manufacturer Chint Group Ltd, which aims to build the solar facility on green belt land near Rose Cottage off Station Road.
The proposed solar farm would span approximately 27 hectares and is designed to be operational for at least 35 years, with discussions indicating a potential duration of up to 40 years. The project site is located adjacent to The Nest, a popular café and bar, and is set to extend towards Thurstaston Hill and a nearby caravan park.
Local Concerns and Council Requirements
In light of growing public opposition, Wirral Council has outlined specific demands that must be addressed in any future planning application. The council’s request emphasizes the need for comprehensive environmental assessments, including a two-year survey of local bird populations, beginning in 2024, and evaluations of protected species that may be impacted.
The council report highlights the importance of assessing the solar farm’s potential long-term environmental effects and the reversibility of any damage caused. Additionally, concerns have been raised regarding the historical significance of the area, with emphasis on prehistoric and medieval activities that could be affected by the project.
The council stated, “To minimise impacts on the historic environment, there are several measures which the council will be closely scrutinising.” They have indicated a preference for avoiding the placement of solar arrays on the highest, most visually exposed slopes.
Community Engagement and Future Steps
Chint Solar has promised a “full and transparent” process, stating that the public will soon have access to “clear, accessible and detailed information” regarding the project through a dedicated website. A public consultation is expected to be launched shortly, allowing local residents to voice their opinions and concerns.
Despite the backlash, Chint Solar maintained that the current work involves preliminary technical and environmental studies, which are essential for determining the suitability of the proposal. A spokesperson for the company affirmed their commitment to engaging in open dialogue with the local community during the planning stages.
Wirral Council has also indicated that it will likely consult with nearby Flintshire Council regarding the application, given that the solar farm would be visible across the River Dee. However, council officers have made it clear that a definitive assessment of the proposal’s acceptability cannot be made without further information.
The situation remains dynamic as the local community continues to express its views on the solar farm project, balancing the pursuit of renewable energy with the preservation of the area’s natural beauty and historical significance.
