South Raynham solar farm set for approval

More solar panels could soon be covering Norfolk farmland as officials have given the green light for yet another scheme to be built.

South Raynham is set for a 5,500-panel solar farm which will span nearly nine acres, an area equivalent to almost six football pitches.

A growing number of solar farms being built across Norfolk’s countryside is causing concern in some areas due to their size and scale.

But this project, which would be built at Uphouse Farm off Swaffham Road, has received no objections.

It is significantly smaller than more controversial schemes, such as at East Pye, which will cover more than 2,700 acres if approved.

Solar panels have already been erected in other areas of the farm, which has won awards for its green credentials.

Officers at North Norfolk District Council have said it will not affect neighbours, saying it will not be “overbearing, overshadowing, overlooking” or result in “loss of outlook”.

The official added: “The proposal will help support an existing farm enterprise by providing a secure and sustainable energy source, offering resilience against volatile energy prices, and reducing operational costs through on-site generation.”

Planning officers have recommended the scheme for approval, and councillors in the planning committee will make a decision next Thursday.