Solar farm due to be built!

The plan has generated considerable debate, with the developer, Photo Vault Development Partners, highlighting its importance for achieving the UK’s climate goals. However, local politicians and opponents have voiced significant concerns. Additionally, campaigners are urging Blenheim Palace, the landowner for 90% of the site, to leverage its position to secure 2% of the project’s annual income for local community benefits, a significant increase from the proposed 0.2%.

Blenheim Palace acknowledged the differing viewpoints but emphasized the project’s potential to power 330,000 homes with clean energy, contributing to Oxfordshire’s energy independence and the fight against climate change. The Low Carbon Hub, through its Make Botley West Solar Farm Fair campaign, is advocating for “real and lasting benefits” for the local communities hosting the farm. They estimate that 2% of the first year’s revenue could generate £840,000 for the community, though they acknowledge the exact figure is uncertain until the project is operational. They argue their 2% model ensures a fair community benefit linked to the project’s success.

West Oxfordshire District Council has previously noted the potential for both substantial positive and negative impacts due to the solar park’s size.

As part of the ongoing planning process, relevant stakeholders, including the affected local authorities, are able to formally respond to the proposals.