WELCOME

The Save Churnet Valley Action Group welcomes you to our page. Here you will find information provided by volunteers from the group to keep you up to date with the planning developments regarding the proposed solar plant, and how you can help to protect our beautiful countryside.

The Proposed Solar Plant in Churnet Valley

A planning application has been submitted to erect a massive >100 acres (***insert new figure***) of solar panels (the equivalent of ** football pitches) Surrounded by up to 3m (10ft) high fencing involves large numbers of solar panels, 3-meter-high fencing, CCTV cameras, and constant noise from cooling fans.

This industrial development threatens to disrupt scenic landscapes, wildlife habitats, and public footpaths, replacing open countryside with rows of panels and barriers. While we support alternative energy, this location is inappropriate. The Churnet Valley’s unique character and heritage would be permanently scarred by this oversized project.

Key points of objection...

Please go to the information page to read about these points in more detail.

The devastation, visual impact & harm caused to the landscape
The serious risk of irreversible contamination to drinking water
The fire risk posed by the lithium ion batteries used to store solar energy
Reports of serious impacts on the physical and mental health of nearby residents
Local environmental impact
Severe threat to heritage assets
Profound effect on ecology and local wildlife
Impact on public footpaths
Such an industrialised development is highly visible to dominate the Churnet Valley with an impact on tourism
Lack of efficiency
Real concern that this will set precedent for similar developments in the local area

What can you do?

The action group are relying on your support, join us in raising awareness, fundraising and voicing your concerns and objections to the planning department/council.

Public Meeting

You are invited to the public meeting at Cauldon Lowe village hall (Date TBC)

See the plans for the proposed solar park development & voice your concerns to our local MP,

Fundraising

Fundraising is actively taking place to ensure we have some of the best planning and environmental experts available to help us fight our campaign. Keep an eye on our events page for more details.

Donations

SCVL is active in it's fundrising appeal, however we need to raise a considerable amount more to fund consultant experts to give rigorous, evidence based assessments to fight this proposal.

The link takes you to SCVL's Just Giving page, each donation is gratefully received and we sincerely thank you for your generosity.