British Solar Renewables (BSR) has been granted planning permission for its 29MW Lower Wyke Solar Park on appeal.
The 86 hectare Hampshire project was refused by Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council in June last year, despite being recommended for approval by planning officers. BSR appealed the refusal and a hearing took place in May this year.
The planning inspector determined that the renewable energy, biodiversity and wider public benefits of the project outweighed the identified harm, and granted planning permission for the development. BSR has committed to a net biodiversity gain of 217% in habitats and hedgerows.
The developer discussed it approach to biodiversity in an interview with Solar energy portal earlier this year.
This decision is in line with the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), which per year update introduced in 2024states that the “broader environmental benefits associated with increased production of energy from renewable sources” should take priority over damage to the landscape.
The initial recommendation for site approval recognized that “the proposed development would have a detrimental impact on both the local landscape character of the area and on the National Landscape” but stated that the mitigation measures that BSR would be required to take meant that “the adverse impacts would be mitigated and reduced whilst providing a form of energy from a renewable source”.
In refusing the application, Basingstoke and Dean Borough Council stated that the scale, layout and design of the site would have “an unacceptable adverse impact on the landscape character and visual amenity of the area”.
The Planning Inspectorate’s decision to approve the project is in line with the majority of solar refusals that have been appealed. process more than doubles the time between an initial submission and an approval.
Project Manager at BSR, Marcus Camm, said: “This decision marks a significant milestone for the project and shows how well-designed solar developments can play a crucial role in strengthening energy security, supporting the UK’s transition to net zero and delivering lasting benefits for both local communities and the natural environment.”
