THE Campaign to Protect Rural England has voiced its concerns about plans to build a solar farm on Wroughton Airfield.

Anne Henshaw, chairman of North Wiltshire and Swindon branch, appealed to the Secretary of State to dismiss the proposal during a planning inquiry into the scheme yesterday.

The project, a joint venture between Swindon Commercial Services and the Science Museum, would see the site 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.

The scheme 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.

“The plans would bring an adverse affect to the general amenity for residents and visitors,” said Mrs Henshaw.

“We do not believe that one public good constitutes considerable damage to another public good.”

Some of the key arguments which have been discussed during the proceedings, which started on September 9, is the effect the development would have on the view from Barbury Castle and the Second World War airfield’s historical importance.

Yesterday, planning inspector John Braithwaite heard from residents who support the proposals.

Christopher Kennedy, who has lived in Wroughton for 42 years, said: “I see this application as a win-win.

“Our grandchildren will benefit from climate improvements and the ability to see the Science Museum’s artefacts preserved by the implementation of the solar park project.

“The area of natural beauty views will still be fantastic.”

Coun Ann Richards (Lib Dems, Wroughton and Wichelstowe), who lives in Wroughton, said: “The view is not the same as it was when Iron Age men looked out at their enemies and it sure isn’t the same as when I moved here 45-years-ago.

“I believe the solar plant will not be intrusive and although the view could be different it will not be worse.”

Merrick Denton-Thompson, a landscape architect, assessed the proposal during the hearing and called for a partnership between those for and against the project to help find a solution that suits all parties.

He said: “The opportunity is there in a unique set of circumstances, as all parties are essentially public bodies working together to meet the national interest in securing both renewable energy in the short-term and improving the outstanding landscape of the AONB is the long-term.”

The proceedings are expected to conclude this afternoon.

After the inquiry, Mr Braithwaite will consider all the evidence and make a recommendation to the Secretary of State, who will then make the final decision.