Plans for new solar farm near M4 in Wiltshire revealed

Developers Eden Renewables have proposed to build a new solar project on a large section of land between the village of Kington St Michael and the A350, just south of the M4.

The development will boast a capacity of around 60MWp, which would be enough to generate the equivalent electricity supply of 15,000 average Wiltshire homes.

The site, which has been named Red Barn Solar Farm, has the potential to save around 13,700 tonnes of CO2 pollution per year.

A public consultation was carried out in the local community last month and this process informed the detailed site design.

Ross Wolhuter, the head of UK development for Eden Renewables, said: “Solar is now one of the lowest cost sources of new energy generation - a fraction of the cost of new gas and nuclear power, and can boost our energy security and reduce prices for everyone.

“Wiltshire needs to build more renewables to reach its net zero targets, but opportunities are increasingly limited because of electricity grid connection restrictions. 

“We are excited about the innovative process and design that the community has helped us to produce for Red Barn, which includes over 45 acres of publicly accessible land to deliver a lasting legacy for local people.”

The plans include several ideas put forward during the enquiry by design exercise with locals, including a 30-acre community access area containing a new orchard, woodland pasture, wildflower meadows with seating, and a footpath.

A 16-acre county wildlife site will also be implemented to encourage the growth of wildflowers.

A solar farm in Calne (Image: Eden Renewables)

Villagers would have access to land set aside for allotments and dog walking while leaky dams and a wetland habitat will also be constructed.

A £24,000 per year community benefit fund will be established should the plans go ahead.

Residents have now been invited to view these plans at a public exhibition in Kington St Michael Club, on June 26 from 3pm until 7.30pm.

This will provide them with the chance to view the plans and provide feedback.

Local investors will also have the chance to buy shared ownership in the project, in return for discounts on their electricity bills.

Eden Renewables have already secured approval for solar farms to be built nearby at Leigh Delamere and Forest Gate, near Derry Hill.

Wiltshire currently generates around six per cent of its electricity from renewable sources despite having a target to become net zero by 2030.