Sir Gavin Williamson is campaigning against the introduction of solar farms across Staffordshire with developers keen to cash in on lucrative proposals.
There is growing concern that developers are seeking to build swathes of solar farms across agriculture and green belt land with areas such as Stowe-by-Chartley and Drointon possibly seriously affected.
Sir Gavin attended a meeting organised by experts, Parish Councillors, and other stakeholders at Stowe-by-Chartley Village Hall to devise a plan to oppose such schemes further bulldozing green spaces.
The attendees heard that dozens of plans are being muted, with concerns that food security will be further compromised if they are allowed to go ahead. Experts in the field also commented of increasing fire risks due to the lithium batteries, as well as damage to the local environment and wildlife.
Cllr Peter Coote, Chairman of Stowe-by-Chartley Parish Council said: “We were extremely pleased to welcome Sir Gavin to our meeting for councillors and clerks from across the whole of Staffordshire.
“The purpose was to discuss concerns regarding solar farms; one contributor wanted them to be referred to as ‘solar factories.’ Ten invitees from a wide range of experiences and qualifications spoke for three minutes to create the perfect start to the meeting, and to enable the fifty participants at the meeting to exchange ideas and concerns.
“It was accepted that there is a place for solar, but the plethora of planning applications took little account of the number needed and the overpowering cumulative effect on our beautiful rural countryside.”
Sir Gavin said: “I welcomed the opportunity to join Councillors and local stakeholders at Stowe-by-Chartley Parish Council to discuss the highly damaging consequences of building solar farms across our countryside.
“The Government are lining the pockets of developers by giving the green light to mass proposals of solar farms without considering the consequences for food security, agricultural land, and the effect on natural habitats.
“The policies in the National Policy Framework make it extremely clear that solar farms should not be put anywhere and consideration must be given to the visual and cumulative impact on our landscape. I do not see this important measure being considered at all.
“I will fight alongside residents, Councillors, and other local interested parties to ensure that our rural communities are protected against cash motivated urban interests.”
