Councillors have rejected officer advice to refuse plans for a solar farm in Margate.
Instead the application to create a 30MW solar farm on land at Hengrove Farm will be deferred to council officers to approve subject to safeguarding and agreement over issues such as the mitigation for sky larks.
The solar farm off Shottendane Road will comprise two parcels of land, one bound by Manston Road and the other bound by Woodchurch Road.
The site is currently in arable agricultural use, producing a variety of crops.
Industria Solar Hengrove Ltd say the proposed 41.55 hectares solar farm would be in operation for 40 years and provide enough energy to meet the annual needs of 9,458 homes.
The company says this saves approximately 6,114 tonnes of carbon emissions per year and would include planting of native species hedgerows, woodland belt, wildflower meadows, and a pond to attract wildlife. The plans state a 255% net biodiversity gain and a 422% increase in hedgerow and trees.
Planning officers at Thanet council had recommended the application be refused, saying it will: “result in substantial harm to the rural and unspoilt open character and distinctive landscape qualities of the countryside” and “would fail to secure adequate mitigation/compensatory habitat to offset the loss of farmland bird habitat, resulting in significant harm to biodiversity.”
The applicant highlighted Thanet council’s declaration of a Climate and Biodiversity Emergency in July 2019 and aims to make the district carbon neutral by 2030.
Documents added: “Solar farms can be constructed quickly on land under just one or a few ownership titles, significantly boosting the renewable energy generated in the UK in the short term rather than relying on a large number of owners or associations to be in a position to consider roof-mounted panels, particularly in times of economic hardship.
“The temporary nature of large-scale solar farms allows to speed up the transition of UK domestic renewable energy sources whilst other sources, such as offshore wind farms, are enhanced or developed.
“The proposed solar farm would be operational for a temporary period of 40 years, after which it would be decommissioned, and the site restored to full agricultural use.
“During this period, the solar farm would generate 30MW of electricity every year. This is enough to power 9,458 homes annually and is the equivalent of offsetting 6,114 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year.”
Most members of Thanet council’s planning committee were swayed by the green energy and biodiversity gains from the scheme, resulting in the decision to give it the green light subject to conditions.
The land is owned by farmer Jonathan Tapp, who said: “I’m absolutely delighted that the councillors on Thanet’s planning committee voted to approve the solar farm proposal for Hengrove Farm.
“Their decision represents a balanced, forward-looking approach that harmonises renewable energy needs with agricultural traditions.
“As a multi-generational farmer, I have deep roots and an abiding respect for this land. The solar installation preserves food production through integrated design allowing vegetation and grazing activities.
“ Just as critically, it provides long-term economic sustainability for our family farming operation amid rising costs and climate pressures.
“I’m grateful the committee recognised the solar farm as an opportunity to be responsible stewards – generating clean power, enhancing biodiversity, and ultimately preventing destructive over-development that could permanently concrete this farmland.
“Their vote encapsulates the innovative spirit of our community. We’re pioneering a new model that shows agriculture and renewables can co-exist synergistically for the benefit of all.
“Thanks to their wisdom, Hengrove Farm can help lead Thanet’s transition to a greener, more secure energy future while upholding our rich farming heritage.”
Industria Solar Hengrove Ltd is part of Industria Brand Energy Ltd – a renewable energy development company that works with landowners around the UK. The site would be leased long-term to Industria Solar Hengrove Ltd, giving Mr Tapp a long-term form of income. The land would be returned to agricultural use after the 40 year solar scheme.
