SWINDON’S long-term renewable energy plans could be scuppered if proposals for a solar farm at Wroughton Airfield aren’t approved, a planning inquiry has heard.

Swindon Council’s technical services manager, David Dewart, made the claim while giving evidence at a planning inquiry accessing the suitability of the scheme, yesterday.

If approved, the site would home more than 100,000 panels which would produce enough power for 12,000 homes a year, as well as providing 41MW of renewable power.

This is part of Swindon’s ambitions, through the Regen South West programme, for the town to produce 200MW of renewable energy by 2020.

“Swindon is already currently behind in meeting its obligation in the climate change challenge,” said Mr Dewart.

“There are also no alternative sites in the borough for a site of this size.”

The Wroughton project, a joint plan from Swindon Commercial Services and the Science Museum, was approved by Swindon Council last December, but the Planning Inspectorate called the public hearing after concerns were raised about what affect the solar farm would have on North Wessex Downs and its attractions.

One of the key issues cited was the potential adverse effect the thousands of solar panels could have on the view from Barbury Castle.

“I don’t consider the heritage site will be impacted. We have concluded that the impact on Barbury Castle would be low,” Mr Dewart said.

“National public interest significantly outweighs the balance in the argument with Barbury Castle.”

The proceedings, taking place at the Civic Offices, are expected to run until Friday.

After the inquiry, planning inspector John Braithwaite will consider all the evidence and make a recommendation to the Secretary of State, who will then make the final decision on the proposal.

  • The hearing will continue at 9.30am on Tuesday.