F Val S Farm

Feldon Vale Solar Farm

PegasusGroup

P20-0362 | OCTOBER 2020

PREPARED BY PEGASUS GROUP ON BEHALF OF LOW CARBON

STATEMENT OF COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

October 2020 | HR/RG | P20-0362

Pegasus Group

Pegasus House | Querns Business Centre| Whitworth Road | Cirencester | Gloucestershire | GL7 1RT

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without the written consent of Pegasus Planning Group Limited

FULL PLANNING APPLICATION FOR THE

CONSTRUCTION OF A SOLAR FARM, TOGETHER

WITH ALL ASSOCIATED WORKS, EQUIPMENT AND

NECESSARY INFRASTRUCTURE

STATEMENT OF COMMUNITY INVOLVEMENT

FELDON VALE SOLAR FARM, STRATFORD-ON-

AVON, WARWICKSHIRE

ON BEHALF OF LOW CARBON

http://www.pegasusgroup.co.uk/

Low Carbon Feldon Vale Solar Farm Statement of Community Involvement

October 2020 | HR/RG | P20-0362

CONTENTS:

Page No:

1. INTRODUCTION 1

2. PLANNING POLICY FRAMEWORK 2

3. THE COMMUNITY CONSULTATION PROCESS 4

4. CONSULTATION RESPONSES 9

5. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS 34

APPENDICES:

APPENDIX 1: CONSULTATION PACK DISTRIBUTION AREA

APPENDIX 2: CONSULTATION PACKS

APPENDIX 3: EXAMPLE EMAIL NOTIFICATION OF CONSULTATION

APPENDIX 4: PUBLIC NOTICES

APPENDIX 5: WEBINAR INVITATION POSTCARD

APPENDIX 6: FIRST TWO WEBINARS JOINING DETAILS

APPENDIX 7: THIRD WEBINAR INVITATION POSTCARD

APPENDIX 8: THIRD WEBINAR JOINING DETAILS

APPENDIX 9: CONSULTATION POSTER

APPENDIX 10: A1 CONSULTATION BOARD

APPENDIX 11: PULL-UP CONSULTATION BOARDS


October 2020 | HR/RG | P20-0362 Page | 1

1. INTRODUCTION

1.1 This Statement of Community Involvement has been prepared to accompany a full

planning application on land to the west of Knightcote Road, Stratford-on-Avon,

Warwickshire (the Application Site).

1.2 The description of development being sought is:

“Construction of a solar farm together with all associated works,

equipment and necessary infrastructure”.

1.3 Applicants are encouraged to consult the local community in preparing

development proposals to provide local people with the opportunity to shape new

development in their area. They are also encouraged to engage with Planning

Authorities and other stakeholders in pre-application discussions.

1.4 This Statement provides a full explanation of the consultation process and is

accompanied by appendices, which contain evidence of the consultation process

and summarise the outcome of feedback from respondents. The Statement also

sets out how those responses have been taken into account in preparing the

application.

1.5 The Consultation process will also assist the Council and other stakeholders in the

consideration of the application and may provide a platform to apply appropriate

planning conditions should planning permission be granted.

1.6 This Statement takes the following form:

I. Section 2 – considers Planning Policy relating to community engagement;

II. Section 3 – outlines the consultation process and programme undertaken

by the Applicant;

III. Section 4 – provides a summary of the consultation responses received;

IV. Section 5 – provides a summary and conclusions and sets out any changes

made to the proposals as a result of the consultation process.



2. PLANNING POLICY FRAMEWORK

2.1 Under Section 18 of the Planning and Compulsory Purchase Act 2004, Local

Planning Authorities (LPAs) are required to produce a Statement of Community

Involvement (SCI). As part of the SCI, LPAs are required to encourage participation

from local community groups when development is proposed.

2.2 The main planning policy references for pre-application consultation relevant to the

proposals are:

• The National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF), published February 2019;

• The National Planning Practice Guidance web-based resource, first published

6th March 2014, with updates; and

• The Stratford-on-Avon Statement of Community Involvement (Adopted

December 2018).

2.3 The role of pre-application discussions is not to seek to persuade or cajole people

into supporting a project or application; rather it is to provide appropriate

opportunities and environments within which people can communicate their

concerns, or aspirations about the proposed development. Those issues and

aspirations are recorded and reported to those who are engaged in designing the

development project, or who are directly involved in the decision-making process.

National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) (February 2019)

2.4 The NPPF sets out the national planning policy for the delivery of sustainable

development through the planning system.

2.5 In addressing the need for pre-application consultation, paragraph 39 of the NPPF

states:

“Early engagement has significant potential to improve the efficiency and effectiveness of the planning application system for all parties. Good quality pre-application discussion enables better coordination between public and private resources and

improved outcomes for the community.”

2.6 Furthermore, paragraph 40 states that where they think it would be beneficial, local

planning authorities should:

“…encourage any applicants who are not already required to do so by law to engage with the local community, and where relevant, with statutory and non-statutory consultees, before submitting their applications.”



2.7 The applicant is therefore encouraged to provide evidence of how the community

have been involved in pre-application discussions concerning the proposed

development.

National Planning Practice Guidance (PPG) (6th March 2014)

2.8 The PPG web-based resource further raises the importance of consultation in the

planning process, in particular the desire to “front-load” consultation in the form of

pre-application discussions.

2.9 The PPG outlines in detail the consultation process which Local Authorities must

follow during their determination of planning applications.

The Stratford-on-Avon Statement of Community Involvement (Adopted December

2018)

2.10 The Statement of Community Involvement confirms the requirements for pre-

application consultations. More specifically, Table 5 outlines the following:

“Applicants are encouraged to engage with relevant

organisations and infrastructure providers (e.g. WCC

Highways) and involve the community* especially the parish

council at the earliest opportunity.”

2.11 In addition to this:

“For all large-scale proposals, the Council expects the

applicant to submit a Statement of Community Involvement

in order to validate a planning application…”



3. THE COMMUNITY CONSULTATION PROCESS

3.1 Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, a variety of methods of consultation were employed

in lieu of being able to arrange conventional face to face meetings and drop-in-

sessions.

3.2 With regards to the Ward Councillors and Parish Councils, this comprised:

• Emails were sent to Bishop’s Itchington Parish Council, Reverend Green,

Burton Dassett Parish Council on 2nd April 2020 to introduce the project

and confirm that the screening request had been submitted (this was also

attached to the email);

• Initial introduction emails were sent on 3rd June 2020 to Bishop’s Itchington

Ward Councillor (Cllr Kettle) to offer an online meeting to present the

proposal (meeting held on Friday 10th July 2020);

• Online meetings with Bishops Itchington Parish Council, Gaydon Parish

Council and Burton Dassett Parish Council were held on 3rd and 11th June

respectively. A Q&A document was collated from the online meetings and

circulated on 7th August to all Parish Councils (including Cllr Kettle) and

meetings; and

• Details of the public consultation were emailed on 13th July 2020 to Bishop’s

Itchington Parish Council, Fenny Compton Parish Council, Gaydon Parish

Council, confirming details of the consultation, including a copy of the

documents received by residents.

3.3 To reach the wider community, a consultation using both an online platform and a

mailshot with freepost feedback service was conducted. The consultation

commenced on Tuesday 14th July 2020, with a closing date of Tuesday 4th August

2020.

3.4 The platform chosen for the online element of the public consultation was

provided by Commonplace via the website:

https://knightcoteroadsolarfarm.commonplace.is/

3.5 The consultation closed formally on the 4th August 2020, however, as we were

providing additional information via webinars, the website re-opened on 26th

August until 2nd September and then extended until the 21st September to ensure

that the local community could continue to access the consultation materials and

https://knightcoteroadsolarfarm.commonplace.is/



provide further comment, should they wish. In addition, this report has been made

available on the website to provide a detailed summary of responses and answers

to the points raised. Further information on the consultation website is provided

below.

3.6 To advertise the online consultation, 1,093 consultation packs (including

introductory letter, information leaflet and feedback form) were distributed to

addresses within 2km of the site. The consultation packs included:

• Letter - which introduced Low Carbon, providing an overview of the

proposed development and the online public consultation;

• Information leaflet – which provided greater details on the proposed

development, including details of capacity and number of homes powered

per year; and

• Feedback-form – a five-sided form, which provided the opportunity for the

local community to provide their detailed comments on the proposals,

should they wish. A freepost business reply address was provided, enabling

any local residents who wished to submit their comments in writing, rather

than online, to do so.

APPENDIX 1 – CONSULTATION PACK DISTRIBUTION AREA

APPENDIX 2 – CONSULTATION PACKS

3.7 Direct emails (with a copy of the consultation packs) were sent to Bishop’s

Itchington Parish Council as well as Bishops Itchington Ward Councillor (Cllr Kettle)

and to the Member of Parliament for the Stratford-on-Avon constituency (Nadhim

Zahawi MP), on the 14th July 2020, providing details of the proposal, the

consultation event, and how to review the proposals through the consultation

website.

3.8 In addition to this, a direct email with a copy of the consultation pack was sent to

the Ramblers Association.

APPENDIX 3 – EXAMPLE EMAIL NOTIFICATION OF CONSULTATION

3.9 To further advertise the consultation to the local community, a Public Notice was

placed in the Leamington Courier (17th July 2020). In addition to this, the Public

Notice was also placed on the website.



3.10 The Public Notice provided a brief introduction to the proposed development,

alongside details of how to access the consultation website, provide written

comments to the Freepost address or to call the Freephone number to ask questions

and provide comments.

APPENDIX 4 – PUBLIC NOTICE

3.11 In order to promote effective engagement and ensure all elements of society could

participate in the public consultation, Low Carbon established a range of ways to

provide feedback and ask questions, through:

• The bespoke consultation website, which was established on Commonplace;

• A Freepost address (Freepost LOW CARBON SOLAR DEVELOPMENT),

where no stamp was required to respond;

• Freephone telephone information line – 0800 047 8561 (Monday – Friday,

9am – 5pm); and

• A dedicated email address ([email protected]).

3.12 All of the consultation material (including the website, consultation packs, letters

and Public Notices) promoted all of the ways to respond to the consultation as

discussed earlier in this document.

3.13 The consultation website was established on Commonplace, which is an online

engagement platform. The consultation website provided details on the project and

Low Carbon, alongside details on the views of the proposed solar farm, public rights

of way, key project documents, and the ability to comment on the proposed

development.

3.14 The consultation website also provided the ability for the local community to

download a range of information, including a community information leaflet,

feedback form, frequently asked questions sheet, details on the development

proposed, photomontages of the proposed development (and associated viewpoints

map).

mailto:[email protected]



Webinars

3.15 In addition to the above, Low Carbon hosted a series of webinars, designed to

provide the local community with the opportunity to discuss the proposals directly

with Low Carbon, provide their feedback and raise their concerns.

3.16 The first two webinars were held with the local community on 25th August at 3pm

and 26th August at 7.30pm. To advertise the webinar, approximately 1,199

postcards were distributed to residents within the consultation area.

3.17 The webinar postcard provided details of the webinar, alongside how to register for

joining details. The webinar postcard confirmed that the consultation would re-open

for any additional comments for a further 7 days, from 26th August to 2nd

September 2020.

3.18 7 and 5 members of the local community attended the webinars respectively.

APPENDIX 5 – FIRST TWO WEBINARS INVITATION POSTCARD

APPENDIX 6 – FIRST TWO WEBINARS JOINING DETAILS

3.19 A third webinar was held with the local community on Thursday 17th September

2020 at 7.30pm. Webinar postcard invitations were sent to residents in Bishop’s

Itchington, Burton Dassett and Northend. The webinar postcard confirmed that the

presentation would commence at 7.30pm, followed by an opportunity to ask

questions and provide feedback to Low Carbon. The webinar postcard confirmed

that the consultation would be extended and close on 21st September for any

further comments.

3.20 9 members of the local community attended the third webinar.

APPENDIX 7 – THIRD WEBINAR INVITATION POSTCARD

APPENDIX 8 – THIRD WEBINAR JOINING DETAILS

Consultation Displays

3.21 A number of local residents and Parish Council’s requested that consultation boards

were prepared and displayed within the local community.



3.22 As such, pull-up consultation boards were prepared, outlining the proposed

development and the community consultation process and placed within the

community centre in Bishop’s Itchington.

3.23 Posters were placed in the villages of Burton Dassett, Northend and Fenny

Compton.

3.24 An A1 Board was placed outside Knightcote Village Hall detailing the layout plan

and details of the webinar and contacting and/or commenting on the proposal.

APPENDIX 9 – CONSULTATION POSTER

APPENDIX 10 - A1 CONSULTATION BOARD

APPENDIX 11 – PULL-UP CONSULTATION BOARDS



4. CONSULTATION RESPONSES

4.1 The aim of the consultation was to provide local residents and stakeholders with

the opportunity to comment on the potential new development proposals in their

area, to raise any concerns that might otherwise have been missed and to make

any further suggestions to improve the proposed development.

4.2 In total, 136 interactions were made through the consultation website, and 11

queries were received during the consultation via email or the Freephone.

4.3 The consultation website, hosted by Commonplace, anonymises all responses

received online, plus the postal copies that have been received and subsequently

inputted. The section that follows, explains how the data has been analysed.

Location and Demographics of Respondents

4.4 Commonplace provides a map summary of the postcodes of respondents who

submitted comments through the consultation website, confirming that all

responses received were from the local community who are in relatively close

proximity to the site (situated around Bishop’s Itchington, Knightcote and

Harbury).

4.5 When describing interests in the consultation, a total of 78% respondents

confirmed that they were local residents. 2% of respondents confirmed that they

were regular visitors to the area, followed by a further 2% confirming that they

were a landowner. The remainder didn't confirm their location.

4.6 With regards to demographics, the majority of respondents (29%) fell into the 31

– 50 category. A further 25% were 51 - 70, followed by 14% of respondents being

between 71 or over. 6% of respondents were in the category of 20 – 30, with 2%



being less than 20. 2% of respondents preferred not to say. The remainder didn't

confirm their age.

Response to Consultation Questions

Overall Summary

4.7 The overall summary confirms that 49% of responses were positive, followed by

17% being neutral. 34% of overall responses were negative.

Climate Change is an Issue which Should be Addressed?

4.8 Positively, the majority of respondents

(54%) confirmed that they strongly agreed

with climate change being an issue which

should be addressed. A further 20% of

respondents agreed with this. Therefore,

74% of respondents agreed or strongly

agreed with this question.

4.9 On the contrary, 2% of respondents stated

that they strongly disagree with climate

change being an issue which should be

addressed, followed by 25% who responded

with unknown.



The UK Should Generate More Renewable Energy Rather than Rely on Fossil Fuels?

4.10 The majority of respondents (54%) strongly

agreed with the fact that the UK should generate

more renewable energy rather than rely on fossil

fuels. A further 12% of respondents agreed with

this. Therefore, a total of 66% of respondents

agreed or strongly agreed with this question.

4.11 In contrast, 2% of respondents disagreed and a

further 2% strongly disagree with this that the UK

should generate more renewable energy rather

than rely on fossil fuels. A further 26% responded

with unknown and 5% didn't know.

Have you seen an Operational Ground-Mounted

Solar Development Before?

4.12 The majority of respondents (78%) confirmed

that they had seen a ground-mounted solar

development before. A further 22% did not know

whether they had.

Received Comments

4.13 An overall summary of the comments received provides an indication of the aspects

of the project which the comments relate to, the number of comments for each,

and whether the comments were positive (green), neutral (amber) and negative

(red).



4.14 A range of comments were received through the consultation website, via email,

and from the written feedback form. The comments forms received and responses

to the consultation provide valuable local knowledge and opinion. The comments

have been summarised and analysed and are set out in the tables below.

4.15 From the comments, it was highlighted how there are mixed views over the

Proposed Development. A number of comments were very supportive of a

renewable energy scheme.

4.16 It is intended not only to respond to the comments, but to also indicate, where

possible, how the application proposals address the comments. These issues are

dealt with in brief below and comprehensively through the technical and

environmental reports that are submitted in support of the application, including

the Design and Access Statement and the Construction Traffic Management Plan.

Comments Response

Your organisation has stated that you

would not choose prime agricultural

land for development. I have noticed

that several of the fields earmarked

for this site have wheat growing in

them - I would consider this of high

importance and the loss of these

fields means a reduction in food

production. What would your

comment be on this matter?

Comments noted.

This planning application is located on

greenfield land and is supported by an

Agricultural Land Classification report

which demonstrates that 84% of the site

forms Grade 3b (Moderate Quality) and

16% is Grade 4 (Poor Quality)

agricultural land. None of the land

represents best and most versatile land

which development is steered away



Suggestion - Have some sort of

electricity meter showing how energy

is being generated on a live basis.

We are in a dilemma (the human

race) with food production vs energy

production and its a difficult

question. However, as an

organisation, why don't you focus

more on installations on existing

buildings, eg factory roofs, rather

that virgin agricultural land? I am

sure that if every roof in this land

had solar panels, there would be no

need to fill fields up with them.

Your consultation could explain why

we don't do more to use existing

facilities - or is it just easier to find

an eager landowner who wants to

get out of agriculture?

from with a preference towards lower

grades.

With regards to alternatives,

development of solar PV on roofs of

industrial and other premises can be

unfeasible. This is due to many

structural constraints, but also the

complications of securing multiple grid

connections. Furthermore, considering

the scale of the proposed development,

a significant number of roofs would be

required to generate an equivalent level

of renewable energy.

The suggestion regarding an electricity

meter showing how much energy is

being generated on a live basis has been

passed to Low Carbon's Asset

Management Team to see if the live data

can be shown via the website.

As mentioned by another person,

the size of the development is going

to change the landscape. Whilst I

am not against development and I

understand the need for energy

generation it would be good to

understand why more localised

generation isn't possible. For

example installation in the village on

existing housing.

Comments noted.

The Landscape and Visual Impact

Assessment confirms that the Proposed

Development has been considered as

responding well to the characteristic of

the receiving landscape, mitigating

visual effects, whilst not compromising

the requirements and technical aspects

of this solar energy scheme.

Considering the scale of the proposed

development, a significant number of

existing roofs would be required to

generate an equivalent level of

renewable energy.

The size of this development is a

concern because of the possible

visual impact locally and the

disturbance to local wildlife.

Despite living within 2km of the site

we have not been given any details

about it at all which is disappointing.

The before and after photos do not

give any useful insight into the

project at all. Is this the best use of

this agricultural land? Has there

been a proper assessment of the

impact on wildlife? Will hedges be

removed and this large area be

impassable for deer, hares etc?

Solar farms would seem to have a

lot less impact installed as smaller

areas.

Comments noted.









A key element of the Proposed

Development is to provide a

biodiversity net gain. The proposed

development will result in a biodiversity

net gain of (predominately through new

habitat planting and hedgerow

planting).



The layout of the development ensures

there will be minimal works to or loss of

the existing trees and hedgerows within

the site. Where required, gaps in

hedgerows will be repaired with

appropriate native hedgerow species

supplemented with native tree planting

to reflect local landscape character.

For safety and security reasons, a 2m

high stock fence will be installed around

the perimeter of the site, which will

prevent deer from passing through the

site. However, badger friendly/small

mammal access points will be prescribed

at various locations along the fencing.

Why take away fields when there are

much less controversial spaces for

badly needed renewables? Solar

panels should be placed on the roof

of all homes. This should, by now, be

a matter of routine on all new housing

developments. They could also be

used as a roof over supermarket car

parks, as in some European

countries.

Give people more time to comment -

three weeks is insufficient,

particularly given the current

situation with Covid-19.

Comments noted.





renewable energy.

Low Carbon have devised a

comprehensive public consultation

strategy which is intended to be

inclusive to all, allowing all elements of

society to comment on the proposals.

The consultation comment period was

extended as described in chapter 3 of

this SCI, providing additional webinars

and consultation display boards, than

originally envisaged at the

commencement of the consultation.

Why not emphasise the important of

renewables and engage the local

community at the same time. If you

set up a scheme to offer local

homeowners solar installations at

cost price it would cost you nothing

but make use of economies of scale,

give benefit to local people (and get

them on-board) AND increase solar

capacity - everyone's a winner!

A) don't be so negative, emphasise

not just the local benefits, but the

benefits to climate change. People

have suggested alternatives - these

can be done as well.

B) Don't make the online questions

different from the paper ones (why

are there no questions about climate

Comments noted.

The benefits of the scheme include

increased renewable energy generation,

equivalent to provide electricity to

approximately 16,581 homes, and

assistance towards reducing CO²

emissions saving 11,210 tonnes of CO²

per annum; provision of up to 60-80

construction jobs; and, appropriate

biodiversity and landscape

enhancements via increased boundary

planting and species-rich grassland.

The questions on the website and the

feedback form are the same.



change here) - this will skew your

responses and give biased data.

I'd like to see every effort being made

to diversify and encourage bees and

other wildlife. The solar farm is an

opportunity for people to come and

visit to learn more about renewable

technology.

Comments noted.





net gain (predominately through new


planting).

This site is huge....nothing against

solar farm, we already have one in

the village, but this is just enormous.

Could the site not be made smaller?

Comments noted.

The scale of the proposed development

has been considered in the context of

the site and through a range of technical

assessment work.

The scale of the Proposed Development

will help to meet renewable energy

requirements.

The National Policy Statement for

Renewable Energy Infrastructure (EN-3)

(July 2011) confirms that a significant

increase in generation from large-scale

renewable energy infrastructure is

required to meet the Government’s

targets.

All of the current views are a long way

from the power park can you include

views such as from the Knightcote

road which most residents in

Knightcote will travel daily.

Suggestion - consider giving local

residents part ownership by say a

proportion of income for generation

being given to locals through a trust

for local projects/needs.

The views shown demonstrate to me

that if you walk far enough away

from the power park eventually you

won’t see it! if you want to show

impact then show a view most

impacted not those least impacted.

Comments noted.









This is an enormous amount of land

and it seems a shame to use it for

enormous solar panels! We love

cycling this way because of the views

of fields we get. We do not live in the

countryside so that we can see fields

of black! We already have a solar

farm near the village. We don’t want

Comments noted.





renewable energy.



another! I don’t understand why you

don’t invest in people’s roofs instead!

That’s where solar panels belong. I

have nothing against them being on

buildings, just not ruining our

beautiful countryside.

None of these initiatives make up for

ruining the countryside!









This is a place of natural beauty and

a treasure to the local community

which should not be destroyed by

solar panels. These panels should go

somewhere else. Fields are for food.

Climate change is an issue but should

not include destroying natural

scenery!

Don't do it as we will not have our

beautiful Outstanding countryside.

Plan this solar farm somewhere else,

away from Hambridge road and

Knightcote road as this is a beauty

hotspot which you do not get much

anymore and the views will be

destroyed. Maybe do this project

towards Harbury or Ladbroke or

Deppers Bridge. Please do not do it.

Comments noted.









With regards to agricultural land, the

Proposed Development is located on



which demonstrates that the site forms

Grade 3b (Moderate Quality) and Grade

4 (Poor Quality) agricultural land.

The proposal is absolutely huge -

bigger than the whole of Bishops

Itchington. Completely inappropriate

for the location and a massive waste

of agricultural land. Why not site the

solar panels along the side of the

railway line where access is already

good, there will be no impact on

agriculture, and minimal impact on

the surrounding area. Other countries

I have visited do this already.

Comments noted.




assessment work.







targets.

In terms of agricultural land, the scale of

the Proposed Development will help to

meet renewable energy requirements.

This solar farm is far too large and

many parts are too near the road. I

will object to this solar farm due to

the scale.

MOD Kineton would be far better

location.

Comments noted.




assessment work.



Smaller site and not the fields close

to the roads then I would not object.







targets.

The countryside charity who played a

role in winning an appeal against a

wind farm have stetted that the

reasons given by the secretary of

state for refusing the appeal stand

today! it was refused on the grounds

it would have an adverse effect on the

living conditions of residents nearby

the character and landscape including

views from Burton Dassett and affect

the setting of the Beacon Tower . A

judgement that would be supported

today.

The community doesn't need the

solar farm, as detailed in the reasons

the wind farm was rejected.

On speaking to the team last week I

was horrified to hear the farmer can

take any hedging down he so

wishes?? so how does that leave the

community?? in a very vulnerable

state should this project go

ahead...this technology is out of

date already....

Comments noted.

Only dead or decaying area of hedgerow

will be removed which is already existing

within the site which will be replaced

with new native hedgerow. A 5m section

of hedgerow will need to be removed for

access purposes and will be replaced by

a gate.

The scale and location of the

proposed development will have an

adverse impact upon the local

community. The villages of Bishops

Itchington, Knightcote and

surrounding areas will be adversely

affected. Utilising c240 areas of local

farm land and polluting it with

mechanical and electrical equipment

and devises is obscene. The huge

scale of this proposed project will

make it one off, if not the largest of

its kind in the country. The farmland

and countryside should be

maintained for livestock and arable

farming. Farmers and landowners

should resist the temptation of

financial incentives for allowing the

land to be used in such a manner. In

2013 residents in the locality

successfully won an appeal against a

wind farm development. The

Comments noted.




assessment work.







targets.

The Proposed Development is located on








Secretary of State refused the wind

farm development stating the

following reasons, it would have an

adverse effect on living conditions of

nearby residents, it would have an

adverse impact upon the character

and amenity of the local landscape

including public views from Burton

Dassett Hills, and would adversely

affect the settings and the function of

the Beacon Tower Monument. A

government judgement and

precedence has been established for

this locality and should be upheld.

This is not an appropriate location

and use of farm land and countryside,

there is plenty of industrial and

commercial building roof space that

can be used all located within easy

connectivity to local electrical

distribution networks.

It will be possible for sheep grazing to

continue on the site, between the rows

of solar panels.

Wow! What a wonderfully well

thought out proposal. I think the new

walkway/footpaths look amazing. In

this current climate emergency we

are in need of something like this &

more. Some people would prefer

wind turbines but my opinion is that

they would impact on the landscape

too much, whereas this really shows

a way where tradition and the future

can fuse together seamlessly leading

us to a brighter future for everyone.

Also would be a great way to educate

future generations.

Comments noted.

I've absolutely no problem with this,

it looks to be a really forward looking

development.

Comments noted.

Think it’s a great idea to reduce our

C02 footprint!.. better than power

stations and burning coal!

Comments noted.

This proposal is good news to see

solar developers and land owners are

taking climate change seriously.

Comments noted.

The site is too large. I support

renewable energy but this is too large

for our local area.

Comments noted.

From my experience of the existing

solar farm on the western side of

bishops Itchington the visual impact

and construction traffic are minimal.

The environmental benefits of solar

power vastly outweigh any temporary

Comments noted.



negative impacts during construction

and once complete any minimal

visual changes that are detectable

from the road soon no longer seem

“different” and just become the new

normal. The footpath across the site

should be enhanced. Having tried to

walk the path only a few weeks ago it

was simply planted over and

completely inaccessible.

Improvements in this regard would

be another benefit.

Please ensure that the footpaths are

properly maintained. It is lovely

walking around the other solar farm

so if more footpaths could be included

that would help make the solar farm

part of the community. In general, I

support the development and think it

would be excellent for the community

to be making a contribution to the

global challenge of reducing climate

change.

Comments noted.

These solar panels will have a major

Visual effect on the landscape. We

will have even more lorries going

through a small village. Roadworks

will cause even more disruption

alongside HS2. Badger sets will have

to be moved along with other wise

life. We need renewable energy. But

you should look at hydro. I do not

support this development.

You can improve it by scrapping the

idea.

Comments noted.









The potential for badgers to be present

and affected by the Proposed

Development has been assessed as part

of the Planning Application.

In terms of construction disruption,

during the 4-month construction period

there would be, on average, 8 HGV

deliveries per day.

Once operational, the Proposed

Development will not give rise to

significant traffic movements. The long

term effects during operation will be

negligible.

Very little information is available on

this proposal including the period and

level of disruption in construction,

ongoing noise and nuisance,

screening and how where power lines

Comments noted.

The Application includes the grid

connection route from the site to the

substation. The Solar Array will connect



will need to run to join it to the grid.

All the issues related are important

and the nuances of each need to be

considered, so asking people to rank

them at this stage is disingenuous. It

is also worth noting there is no

consideration of the benefits to

developers will be shared with the

local community.

directly to the substation to the north of

Bishop’s Itchington via underground

cabling.

The construction period is anticipated

to last approximately 4 months. In

terms of construction disruption, during

the 4-month construction period there

would be, on average, 8 HGV deliveries

per day.

On the information available the scale

of this development look excessive.

Comments noted.




assessment work.



requirements.







targets.

I think this is a very good project

and pleased you are incorporating

biodiversity to support wildlife. We

need to educate children as this will

help to improve the world we live in.

Solar is the way forward as we will

rely more on electricity go into a

new era of electric cars etc.

Comments noted.

Completely destroys green space.

visual and noise pollution as a result.

Views from neighbouring nature

reserve Burton Dassett views would

be ruined by ugly solar panels. There

are already solar panel farms in the

area, why do we need more here?

Would impact the local housing

market in a negative way, along with

providing additional threats to young

children who will no doubt want to

explore the area, especially when its

a construction site. I think in general

the views of this area are lovely how

they are and don't need to be

changed. There has to be much more

suited locations for this, on the

outskirts of existing cities that have

Comments noted.









With regards to noise, the proposals will

not be audible beyond the site

boundary.

As part of this planning application, an

Environmental Statement has been

prepared, which identifies the ‘likely



much greater connectivity and ease

of access?

A Educational initiative that highlights

to all audiences how solar farms

destroy natural habitats and local

green landscapes?

I would love to know more about the

environmental impacts as a result of

this if it was to go ahead. What

would be the impact to the local

urban heat island effect as the result

of green vegetation being replaced

by solar panelling and various other

construction materials that have

higher thermal capacities and

greater ability to store heat. It

doesn't require much research on

this subject to realise the

implications this has on global

warming but also human health.

significance of environmental effects’

(beneficial or adverse), which are likely

to arise from the Proposed

Development, by comparing the existing

environmental conditions prior to

development (the baseline).

The whole project would be more

appealing if there were designated

footpaths around and through the

site. Bridle paths would also be a

benefit as the road is so dangerous to

ride or walk on.

New footpaths and bridle paths

around and through site.

Comments noted.

No additional footpaths or bridle paths

are proposed as part of the Proposed

Development. The design has been

amended and no Public Rights of Way

(PROW) directly cross the Application

Site, however PROW are located

adjacent to the southeast boundary of

the site. These footpaths run from

Knightcote Road to Knightcote Bottoms.

New hedgerow planting is also proposed

to enclose the site.

Decreasing our reliance on fossil fuels

as quickly as possible is vital if we are

to address the climate emergency. I

would be delighted to have another

solar farm nearby. If the site can be

developed to also improve

biodiversity of the area then that

would be a great bonus.

Provide more information on the

impacts of the climate emergency

and why we urgently need more

renewable energy.

Comments noted.

Additional information on the need for

the scheme is included within the

Planning Statement, which

accompanies this application.

Solar farm - support concept - a

really good idea. Biodiversity - what

plans in place to support and

maintain meadows over time? Just

sowing wildflower seed doesn't

produce a meadow. Nor does sheep

grazing! Have options for using

brownfield sites for this project (eg

Comments noted.





net gain (predominately through new



long marston disused airfield) been

considered? Worth routing

construction traffic carefully.

Knightcote bottoms is busy and single

track - construction traffic could

cause severe congestion issues.


planting).

With regards to alternatives, often

Brownfield Land is of a much smaller

scale than the Proposed Development

and there has to be a viable grid

connection available in close proximity

to the site in question also.

A Construction Traffic Management Plan

(CTMP) has been prepared as part of the

application. The CTMP confirms that the

construction could generate, on

average, 8 HGV deliveries per day. A

possible routing plan is proposed (using

the M40 and A423), confirming that the

use of Knightcote Bottoms is unsuitable.

The proposals for planting around the

site and maintenance and

augmentation of existing hedgerows

are interesting: what steps will be

made to establish and maintain

these? Planting trees and establishing

them are different matters. Also,

what mitigation will there be for the

impact of construction traffic. Heavy

traffic on the local roads, and

Knightcote Bottoms in particular,

would be very disruptive.

The pictures provided do not reflect

potential impact on people living

close to the site. I appreciate that

visibility will be low from ground

level, but the images provided are

from some distance from the site.

Comments noted.

A Planting Plan (including details of the

maintenance of the planting) has been

prepared as part of the application.

A Construction Traffic Management Plan

(CTMP) has been prepared as part of the

application. The CTMP confirms that the

construction could generate, on

average, 8 HGV deliveries per day. A

possible routing plan is proposed (using

the M40 and A423), confirming that the

use of Knightcote Bottoms is unsuitable.









The existing solar farm close to the

village has demonstrated that the

impacts are negligible on the visual

aspect, access, natural environment.

What is existing arable farming will

most likely be improved for nature,

be entirely reversible and contribute

to green energy.

Please improve the public footpaths

across the site. They’re limited but

improve where you can.

Comments noted.









The design has been amended and no

Public Rights of Way (PROW) directly



It’s all good. I hope that planning is

granted.

cross the Application Site, however

PROW are located adjacent to the

southeast boundary of the site. These

footpaths run from Knightcote Road to

Knightcote Bottoms. New hedgerow

planting is also proposed to enclose the

site.

1. The proposal is not appropriately

sited. The impact on the open,

landscape character of the Feldon

Vale is too great in this location which

has not been selected for its

suitability.

2. The proposal does not meet any of

the Stratford District Council's

renewable energy planning policy on

size, location, setting and makes a

mockery of its existence.

3. Construction will have a greater

impact on the land than is recognised

or than what information is provided

with the extensive works required for

underground cabling, fencing, site

access tracks and infrastructure etc.

4. The statement that sheep can

graze below the panels is

disingenuous as sheep do not graze

shaded grass - the grazable area will

be massively reduced and sheep

numbers a fraction of what it would

otherwise hold. The land is currently

good quality, Grade 3 agricultural

land which should not be used for

inappropriate development (SDC

policy). It is also highly unlikely that

any investor would allow sheep to

potentially damage their expensive

equipment.

5. Grass under solar panels is

regularly mown which does not

provide an ecosystem for insects and

wildlife as stated in the document -

again, another disingenuous

statement.

. Do not put a planning application in

and find an alternative location. 2.

(failing suggestion 1) Scale the

development to the SDC policy size of

5-15 hectares and remove 5 fields in

South-East corner of the proposal

(between the Knightcote Road and

the long thin grass field that joins

Comments noted.









The construction phase of the

development has been assessed in the

accompanying assessments. The

Construction Traffic Management Plan

(CTMP) confirms that the proposed

access arrangement are suitable to

accommodate the construction related

trips and extremely low number of

operational trips.

This planning application is located on






Land between and beneath the panels

has the potential to be used for sheep

grazing.



Knightcote Rd to Knightcote

Bottoms). Also remove 2 fields

adjacent to Knightcote Road (on

corner of Road and by Old Town). 3.

Plant extensive shelter belts of trees

to block views of the solar panels and

associated infrastructure and allow

for them to grow by setting the

panels away allowing for shadows. 4.

Provide bridle paths from West to

East through the development to stop

it from being a barrier to rural sports.

5. Provide free electricity for the life

of the development for those worst

effected - the residents and

commercial properties in the village

of Knightcote. 6. Commit to securing

the full acreage of the development

for agriculture or wildlife on

decommissioning the solar farm to

prevent future development.

Provide actual detail of the proposal.

There is insufficient information to

understand what you are proposing.

The information is misleading - the

map is skewed to reduce its scale.

The diagram of the footpath is out of

scale - the deer fence would be 2-3

times taller. The photo montages are

taken from miles away, and

rendered at low quality to make it

difficult to see the panels - not

because they won't be visible, but

because the image is deceitful. The

questions on the paper questionnaire

create a trap for respondents who

agree with renewable energy, but

only where it is appropriate i.e.. not

in this location. You will no doubt

use the data against them. No

information provided about the

duration of the development and the

process of decommissioning and

what happens to the land after. A

public consultation could well have

been held with social distancing

measures.

I understand the need for projects

like this but feel this uses an

extensive amount of green land, my

concern is really about the size of

the planned solar farm. I have been

around the comparatively small

version north west of village and

hear a buzz from the fields, with

Comments noted.



such a large version I imagine this

would be amplified. Also, relating to

the size, that is a lot of area to have

the visual impact of black glass fields

instead of agriculture and natural

looking countryside

Solar farms generate a lot of power

which is great environmentally but of

course generates huge £ values,

where does all of the revenue

generated go and will there be any

direct financial benefits for the village

and local community? Either in lump

sum form or continual revenue feed?

If not, what are the benefits to locals

for this expansive project which will

no doubt cause disruption during

construction and set up?

Comments noted.

This is not a public consultation it’s a

sham.

The proposal is completely

inappropriate to the area - it is an

industrial large scale proposal which

uses up a huge area of agricultural

land of which there is a diminishing

supply. the impact on the views

from the Burton Dassett Country

Park is totally unacceptable which is

a "special landscape area". Build

them on industrial estates roofs -

don’t destroy the countryside.

Comments noted.

Still important to keep wildlife and

sheep grazing.

Better map! Way too dark. Why not

offer discounts to local residents so

they feel they benefit too.

Comments noted.

The Knightcote Bottoms Road is quite

a busy shortcut to the Motorway and

to Jaguar Landrover staff when

they're not working from home.

Where will the access be for

construction traffic? How will you

manage traffic? (marker). PROW - I

think there is a public footpath that

cuts across the development site, I

know your publicity says public

footpaths will be maintained but its

not clear on the map.

I know there was a badger sett on

one side of the area. How will this be

handled/preserved? I think that the

fact that the land can still be used for

grazing is an important feature as

Comments noted.

The Construction Traffic Management

Plan (CTMP) outlines that during the 4-

month construction period, there will be

approximately 8 HGV deliveries per day.

A possible routing plan is outlined in the

CTMP.









site.



well as the clean energy benefits and

needs to be highlighted.

Badger friendly/small mammal access

points will be prescribed at various

locations along the fencing.

Minimal disruption for birds and small

mammals.

Comments noted.

Should have organised a face to face

consultation event

Comments noted.

Using valuable agricultural land,

should be using rooftops etc..

Comments noted.

Would like high hedges on the road

side boundary.

Comments noted.

The site needs to be adequately

screened from the road.

Comments noted.

Fully support the project. Comments noted.

Too big a development. Road network

not good enough for the construction

traffic. Loss of agricultural land not

acceptable.

Comments noted.

Concern regarding the construction

traffic using the small lanes. Concern

over the low level hedges.

Comments noted.

Would prefer 3 separate blocks to

help environment

Comments noted.

Require nuclear power as well. Comments noted.

It's not cost effective. Disruptive to

the local people and environment.

Ugly visually.

Comments noted.

There is no indication of the size of

the solar farm! No indication of traffic

access/construction and disruption to

Knightcote access/traffic or for how

long.

Under the section, the UK should

generate more renewable energy, a

comment was added, "more nuclear"

Yes, you could have held a meeting

of residents in the Knightcote Village

Hall! The consultation letter doesn't

provide anywhere for a "I am

against this" response.

Comments noted.

The site extends to approximately 93

hectares.

The Construction Traffic Management

Plan (CTMP) outlines that during the 4-

month construction period, there will be

approximately 8 HGV deliveries per day.

A possible routing plan is outlined in the

CTMP.

Low Carbon devised a comprehensive

public consultation strategy, including

three rounds of webinars with the local

community, alongside consultation

display’s in the local community.

This is a massive development, much

too big for a small area, taking into

consideration there is also a large

solar farm at Bishop's Itchington.

Also the lane called Knightcote

Comments noted.

Where required, gaps in hedgerows will

be repaired with appropriate native

hedgerow species supplemented with



Bottoms which will back onto one of

the fields to be used has a lot of trees

and hedges will these be cut down to

prevent shade? This is not

acceptable. Also leisure drive roads

will be affected as the solar panels

will hide green countryside!

All questions, although carefully

designed, become irrelevant in

relationship to the scale of the

project. At least providing electricity

for over 16,000 homes

native tree planting to reflect local

landscape character.

Fields should be kept for food not

solar farms

Comments noted.

Regularly use footpath so would want

access to be maintained.

Comments noted.

Exclude hatched areas (plan

provided) - Far too visible from road.

Road is raised here and hedges low.

These areas have greatest visual

impact on Knightcote and when

passing through the area. Plant trees

in shelterbelts to hide panels,

fencing, storage units etc. Better still

- find and alternative location that is

less visible and more appropriate!

Continued AGRICULTURAL use of the

land. Not solar! Site this solar 'farm'

in a more appropriate, less visible

setting - Not here! No site tours -

additional traffic is not beneficial to

the village.

Questions are targeted for you

(developer) to spin the results - very

underhand and clear!

Comments noted.

When working on site please do be

aware that there are a great deal of

Roman works in the area. The visual

aspect is far better than when they

tried to put wind

Comments noted.

Better than traffic and construction

for houses / logistics or other fossil

fuel. Green / clean energy sources

need to be developed and this is an

idea site.

Comments noted.



Open footpaths around, community

inclusion

I would rather this land was used for

green energy than for housing or a

logistics plant (being so close to the

M40) where the impact would be

devastating and long erm

Comments noted.

I have seen sheep grazed on solar

farms in italy.no need to lose farming

sites, just need to be more creative.

The suggestion to grow tree belts is

brilliant. Trees & hedges provide

better wildlife corridors all round, and

absorb the most carbon. They also

will provide a better view. Bridleway

would be a big improvement for

community engagement. This could

be a positive opportunity to build long

term community commitment to the

improvement of the environment

Comments noted.

I’m for solar farms and renewable

energy, but in my opinion the

proposed site is way too big. The

existing site at Plough Lane just

outside of Bishops Itchington is fairly

big and takes some time to walk

around. The proposed site is nearly 4

times as large and for me I just think

that is too much. If it was half the

size, around 100 acres, I feel this

would be a suitable compromise and

doesn’t take away as much farmland

/ general scenic countryside.

Propose a smaller site, half in size

would be more

appropriate/acceptable for me.

Comments noted.




assessment work.



requirements.







targets.

The scale and proximity of this

proposal will have an adverse impact

on nearby residents and the villages

of Bishops Itchington, Knightcote and

surrounding area. The utilisation of

such a large area of farm land and

countryside being visually polluted by

mechanically and electrical

equipment is obscene. Farmers and

landowners of this land should not be

seduced by the attraction of selling

off their principles for financial

inducements and gain. This land

should be retained form livestock and

arable crop farming and for the

general public to enjoy the open

Comments noted.




assessment work.



requirements.








countryside views. In 2013 local

residents won an appeal against a

wind farm development in the same

general location of this proposal.

The Secretary of State refused the

wind farm development and

subsequent appeal made; reasons

given for not granting the

development were made on the

adverse impact upon the local

community and its character, the

impact of public views from Burton

Dassett Hills, and that it would

adversely affect the settings and

function of the Beacon Tower

monument. The precedent has been

set and agreed, this should be

upheld.


targets.









How is one meant to be able to

comment on your proposals when

you provide a map from which it is

impossible to identify the site (or is

this a deliberate ploy). I have lived

in the area for some time and

cannot identify anything meaningful

on your plan.

Email responded to by the Project Team.

Please can you Email me a link to

your online feedback form for the

above project? I could not find the correct page

using google.


Bishops Itchington has been subject

to a lot of development in recent

years. There are at least three new

residential developments which have

been completed and one solar farm.

The residents of the village do have

some experience of living with solar

– and the results are somewhat

mixed. That said, we are least

recognise that a green alternative

for electricity production is required

and solar panels can be an ideal

green and sustainable substitute. We

have no fundamental objection to

solar energy and therefore the

utilisation of agricultural land in this

manner. However, our support is

provisional, and based upon the

comments below:

1. We have heard all the solar

promises before.

Comments noted.

An ecological assessment has been

undertaken as part of this application,

specific mitigation measures have been

provided to reduce the potential for

adverse ecological impacts. Additionally,

a series of habitat enhancement

measures have been proposed which

have resulted in moderate and locally

significant positive effects.




assessment work.



requirements.






Your glossy document is precisely

that – attractive, glossy and

suggestive in relation to bio-

diversity, habitat, bees, etc. We

were sold the same halcyon vision

by your predecessors. However, if

you take a look at our existing solar

‘Farm’ you will note that without

exception the fields are of grass.

There is no bio-diversity (or not that

we can see). Furthermore, we feel

somewhat misled by the developer

because they promised all that you

do. Then once they got their consent

they failed to deliver. We think that

the residents of Bishops Itchington

were sold a pup and if your

development was to progress would

require more detail/commitment. For

example, what (if anything) would

you do over the long term to

facilitate bio-diversity and

sustainability? Your panels will be

there for a long time and as a result

you would commence a long-term

relationship with this village. We

would expect a firm (contractual)

commitment (perhaps as a planning

condition) in respect to what you

would commit to do. Failure to make

a commitment or to adhere to any

commitment that you made to

secure planning consent would be

disappointing and unprofessional.

2. Your development is

substantially larger than the

current solar farm.

The approximate site area of the

existing solar farm is 680m x 400m,

whereas your proposal is (roughly)

1,500m x 400m/1000m. Perhaps 4

to 5 times the size of our existing

farm. Furthermore, you scheme has

a lot more road frontage and

therefore is potentially much more

visible from the road. That said, we

could be persuaded to accept your

proposal subject to a number of

safeguards and the delivery of

amenity value to the locals of

Bishops Itchington. As things stand

there is ‘nothing in it’ for local

residents.




targets.

A Planting Plan accompanies this

planning application to demonstrate the

retained and proposed planting. A

Detailed Viewpoint Assessment has also

been prepared to set out potential

effects at the construction and

operational phases of the proposed

development.









site.



Since you like the notion of a ‘farm’

then to use the farm analogy we

would like to see this farm as an

ethical free-range farm rather than

an intensively worked factory farm.

What this means in practice is that

you design your scheme with slightly

less focus on what you can get out

of the land and a little more about

what you can put in. Specifically

1. Your long term commitment to

ecology etc.

2. Enough visual barrier that the

panels are not visible from the

road (especially during the

winter months when there are no

leaves etc).

3. In connection with 2. – if

required some sort of additional

visual buffer (e.g. a linear copse,

- which would also assist in 1.

4. Enhancing the public amenity by

creating additional public

footpaths. This item is the only

real benefit to local users who

would bear the inconvenience of

your scheme with little other

benefit. This proposal would

include a requirement to

negotiate with local farmers

additional footpath extensions

(see Figure 3)

5. Careful consideration of the

siting of your infrastructure so

that it is not obtrusive (visually

or audibly).

6. Carefully considered construction

plan to e.g. keep roads clear of

mud so that cyclists etc can still

use the roads safely.

Hopefully this list does not appear

too onerous. The key point is that by

working with the local community

you will create more advocates

which, no doubt, will help you to

secure more sites with planning

consent elsewhere.

I do not see any need for this

proposal as we are already

producing more than we require

I believe this should be rejected. My

energy supplier Octopus recently let

me know this fact

Comments noted.



Throw it out.

Any further information on the

proposed Solar farm?

Comments noted.


4.17 The responses received following the consultation event have been fully considered

as the application proposals have been finalised.

4.18 The comments raised through consultation are welcomed, and where possible, are

addressed in full through the technical and environmental documents submitted in

support of the application.

4.19 A number of respondents requested that the site name (Knightcote Road Solar

Farm) was amended to not refer to the village of Knightcote. Based on this

feedback, the site name has been amended to Feldon Vale Solar Farm which was

suggested by a member of the public during the final webinar event.

4.20 Following the consultation, the site area has been reduced in scale from 93 hectares

to 82.5 hectares. Additionally, number of responses referred to visibility of the site

from areas in close proximity to the site. In response to a number of comments,

setbacks have been included in the south-eastern corner as well as from the more

prominent parts of Knightcote Road. As a result of the comments received during

the consultation, the design of the site has been amended and all PROW have been

removed from the Application Site. Revisions to the site layout are depicted in the

below layout plans which demonstrate how the design of the site has evolved.





5. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS

5.1 Low Carbon have undertaken pre-application consultation with the local community

as encouraged by Government policy, contained within the NPPF and the PPG, and

the Council’s Statement of Community Involvement.

5.2 The Public Consultation exercise has allowed local residents and Stakeholders to

consider the proposals before the planning application has been finalised and offer

suggestions and recommendations to help shape new development in the area,

which have been taken into account by the applicant.

5.3 It is acknowledged that pre-application consultation will not always change the

views of those who wish to object to a development proposal, but it ensures that

there is an opportunity to openly review and discuss the proposals with the

developers and their consultant team and to help shape new development.

5.4 The concerns raised above have been noted and considered and where appropriate

addressed through the application and supporting documentation. Some of the

comments have related to off-site matters and as such it has not been necessary

or possible in all cases, to make any direct changes to the proposals as a result of

the consultation. The following changes to the site design have been made as a

result of the consultation including:

• The site name has been amended to Feldon Vale Solar Farm instead of

Knightcote Road Solar Farm, this was suggested by a member of the public

during the final webinar event;

• The site area has been reduced in scale from 93 hectares to 82.5 hectares;

• Setbacks have been included in the south-eastern corner as well as from

the more prominent parts of Knightcote Road; and

• All PROW have been removed from the Application Site.


October 2020 | HR/RG | P20-0362

APPENDIX 1

LEAFLET DISTRIBUTION AREA


October 2020 | HR/RG | P20-0362

APPENDIX 2

CONSULTATION PACK DISTRIBUTION AREA

Page | 1




Pegasus Group is a trading name of Pegasus Planning Group Limited (07277000) registered in England and Wales

Registered Office: Pegasus House, Querns Business Centre, Whitworth Road, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 1RT

Dear Resident,

PROPOSED SOLAR FARM NEAR BISHOP’S ITCHINGTON, STRATFORD-ON-AVON

I would like to take this opportunity on behalf of Low Carbon Limited to introduce proposals

for a new solar farm, to be known as Knightcote Road Solar Farm, and to ask for your views.

For further information, we have enclosed an information leaflet with this letter.

Knightcote Road Solar Farm is situated approximately 750m south of Bishop’s Itchington and

approximately 900m north-west of Knightcote.

Low Carbon is a British-owned investment and asset management company which is

committed to making a positive and significant impact on the causes of climate change. Their

goal is a genuinely low carbon future with environmental stewardship and collaboration with

local communities at the heart of their approach. Low Carbon is proud to be a Certified B

Corporation™.

Pegasus Planning Group is a specialist town planning consultancy and has been appointed by

Low Carbon to coordinate the planning process for the project including engagement with the

local community. Ultimately, the aim is to submit a planning application for the project, but

no application has been made at this time.

The site will have a capacity of approximately 49.9 megawatts (MW) of clean renewable

electricity and will provide enough energy to power more than 16,581 homes. This clean

power will be provided to the local electricity network.

Public Consultation

Owing to the current health risks associated with COVID-19, public drop-in events are no

longer appropriate, but we are still committed to hearing your views before we submit a

planning application. Therefore, we are asking you to give us your views via our interactive

digital engagement platform, to do this, please visit our website and go to the ‘Have your say’

page. The platform will be available from Tuesday 14th July for 3 weeks.

Alternatively, if you are less comfortable with digital methods, you can still provide your

comments via more traditional methods. Enclosed with the information leaflet is a feedback

form which you can complete and post back to our Freepost address. You do not need a

stamp, simply insert your completed feedback from into a blank envelop and write the

address Freepost LOW CARBON UK SOLAR DEVELOPMENT. In addition to this you can

call our freephone information line at 0800 047 8561 (Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm) or email

us at [email protected].


Page | 2




Pegasus Group is a trading name of Pegasus Planning Group Limited (07277000) registered in England and Wales

Registered Office: Pegasus House, Querns Business Centre, Whitworth Road, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 1RT

Website: https://knightcoteroadsolarfarm.commonplace.is/

Post: Freepost LOW CARBON UK SOLAR DEVELOPMENT

Email: [email protected]

Telephone: 0800 047 8561

Next steps

All of the feedback we receive during the consultation period will be reviewed and considered

by the project team and will incorporated into the scheme where possible before submitting

the planning application to Stratford-on-Avon District Council.

We look forward to hearing your comments.

Yours faithfully

Pegasus Planning Group on behalf of Low Carbon


Knightcote Road Solar FarmCommunity information

About the projectLow Carbon are proposing to develop Knightcote Road Solar Farm on land located approximately 750m south of Bishop’s Itchington and approximately 900m north-west of Knightcote. The Knightcote Road Solar Farm would generate power through photovoltaic solar panels, providing clean power into the local distribution network (LDN).

The project could have a generating capacity of approximately 49.9 megawatts (MW). This would be enough to power approximately 16,581 homes a year, as well as saving circa 11,210 tonnes of CO2 emissions per year which is equivalent to 5,175 cars off the road per year.

This site was carefully selected through our development process ensuring it met with Low Carbon’s criteria including: a viable grid connection nearby with capability of accepting the power generated; being a site which compares favourably in terms of planning designations and; a willing landowner.

49.9MW solar farm capacity

16,581Homes powered each year

11,210Tonnes of CO2 saved each year

5,175cars taken off the road

About Low CarbonLow Carbon, the developer of this project is a British-owned investment and asset management company whose business model is based on the financing, development, construction and operation of renewable energy projects at scale. Low Carbon is committed to making a positive and significant impact on the causes of climate change with the goal of a low carbon future with environmental stewardship and collaboration with local communities at the heart of this approach.

Community engagementWe want to ensure the community around this proposal is informed and fully understands the plans for the project. We encourage feedback and suggestions to help influence the design. Our digital engagement platform provides a simple and transparent way for the community to provide feedback, where comments can be pinned to an interactive map of the project area.

Biodiversity and solar farmsIt’s important to Low Carbon that the area is improved for nature and, as part of the planning process, Low Carbon is required to demonstrate that there will be biodiversity gain on site. Across all its sites, Low Carbon seeks to increase biodiversity and support pollinators such as bees. It does this by understanding the characteristics of each site location and planting species that are native to that area. All existing woodland, trees and hedgerows are retained only ever adding new planting for additional screening.

www.lowcarbon.com

Find out moreIf you have queries in relation to this project, please contact the project team by emailing [email protected] quoting “Knightcote Road Solar Farm”

Low Carbon is a certified B Corporation®. B Corps™ are businesses that meet the highest standards of social and evironmental performance, transparency and accountability.

Knightcote Road Solar FarmIntroducing the plan

www.lowcarbon.com

Find out moreIf you have queries in relation to this project, please contact the project team by emailing [email protected] quoting “Knightcote Road Solar Farm”

Low Carbon is a certified B Corporation®. B Corps™ are businesses that meet the highest standards of social and evironmental performance, transparency and accountability.

Sheep-grazing is possible between the rows of panels and is encouraged.

This type of habitat is important to support bees and other pollinators we rely on.

Within the site, biodiverse grassland meadows will be sown to support wildlife.

The site contains existing trees and hedgerows which will be retained and added to using native species.

Yes No Don’t know

Knightcote Road Solar FarmCommunity Feedback Form

We want to hear from you

Add your voice using this feedback form and help improve our proposal or find out more about the proposal through our digital engagement platform or contact the project team.

Access our digital engagement platform via https://knightcoteroadsolarfarm.commonplace.is/Email us at: [email protected], quoting Knightcote Road Solar FarmCall our Freephone information line: 0800 047 8561 (Monday-Friday, 9am—5pm)Write to us at: Freepost LOW CARBON UK SOLAR DEVELOPMENTPlease note the deadline for the submission of feedback is Tuesday, 4th August 2020.

Renewable Energy Questions

Broadly, we are interested in people’s views on climate change and renewable energy. It would be useful to receive feedback on the following statements:

Climate Change is an issue which should be addressed

Strongly Agree Agree Don’t know Disagree Strongly

Disagree

The UK should generate more renewable energy rather than rely on fossil fuels

Have you seen an operational ground-mounted solar development before?

Page 1 of 5 July 2020


Project specific questions

Provide comments on our map about what’s important to you.

Your comments and answers to the project questions will be added to the digital engagement platform (https://knightcoteroadsolarfarm.commonplace.is/) and therefore will be in the public domain and visible to others.


Which aspect of the project are your comments in relation to? Tick all that apply

Please don't mention any personal details or names. Please mark an X on the area of the map you are commenting about. If you are commenting on more than one aspect, please could you add a number after the X e.g. X1, X2, X3 and add your comments in the box below.

Local ecology and bird life

Archaeology and local heritage Visual impact

Traffic access and construction Tourism and recreation Noise

Other, please specify


We are considering a number of initiatives as part of this proposal. Please rate the following which you consider the most important? [1 being the most important and 5 being the least important]

What are your overall feelings towards the project? Please circle your choice.

Our consultation

How did you find out about this consultation?

Do you think there is anything we can improve about our consultation?

We are using a new system, “Commonplace” to assist with our consultation and utilising postal feedback forms, rather than holding events in light of restrictions around COVID-19. We appreciate any feedback you have on the content, questions or more generally around the method of consultation so that we can improve our future consultations. Please let us know for example if you think we have asked too many questions, we missed a question/s, was it useful.

Letter Online Word of mouth Press Other

New habitat for wildlife Educational areas on edge of site

Education packsfor schools

Site tours for thecommunity and/or schools Other, please specify



Please tell us more about you

The following questions are optional. You can answer all the questions, some, or none of them. They will only be seen by Low Carbon’s project teams and won’t be public.

We thought we would let you know why we are asking these questions and how they will help us.

This type of digital engagement alongside paper engagement is new to us. We want to ensure our engagement process has engaged with a cross-section of the community so that everyone has a chance to put forward their views.

We appreciate to some people these questions might seem intrusive; however, they are optional, therefore please don’t feel the need to complete them.

Please place a tick if you agree with the following statement:☐ I agree to my information being processed by Low Carbon Limited and/or Commonplace Digital Ltd for the

purpose of consulting the nearby community to the Knightcote Road Solar Farm.

What’s your postcode? (this helps us identify which areas have responded)

For the following questions, please tick the box most applicable to you:

How would you describe your interest in the project?

Local Resident Local Representative

Interest Group Member Landowner Regular Visitor Local Business

Owner

What is your age group?

< 20 20-30 31-50 51-70 71 and over Prefer not to say

What is your gender?

Male Female Other Prefer not to say



We would like to keep you updated on news and activity for Knightcote Road Solar Farm. If you agree to being contacted, please tick your preferred method in the relevant boxes below and provide your personal details.

We keep it separate and safe

We will only keep your answers for so long as necessary to carry out the purposes for which we collected it.

You may at any time contact us to request access to and rectify or erase your answers (see contact details below).

You may at any time contact us to withdraw your consent (see contact details below).

For more information read Commonplace’s privacy policy which can be found at https://www.commonplace.is/privacy and Low Carbon’s privacy policy which can be found at https://www.lowcarbon.com/privacy-policy/.

If you have any question please contact us by email ([email protected]).

Thank you for participating in the consultation for Knightcote Road Solar Farm.

Email Post

Name Title

Organisation(if applicable)

Address

Postcode Telephone

Email



October 2020 | HR/RG | P20-0362

APPENDIX 3

EXAMPLE EMAIL NOTIFICATION OF CONSULTATION

1

Harry Ramsey

From: Harry Ramsey <[email protected]>Sent: 06 October 2020 11:38To: Harry RamseySubject: FW: Proposed Solar Farm near Bishop's ItchingtonAttachments: Knightcote Road Solar park community information and plan.pdf

Dear Name I would like to take this opportunity to introduce proposals for a new solar farm, to be known as Knightcote Road Solar Farm. For further information, I have enclosed an information leaflet with this email. Knightcote Road Solar Farm is situated approximately 750m south of Bishop’s Itchington and approximately 900m north-west of Knightcote. Low Carbon is a British-owned investment and asset management company which is committed to making a positive and significant impact on the causes of climate change. Their goal is a genuinely low carbon future with environmental stewardship and collaboration with local communities at the heart of their approach. Low Carbon is proud to be a Certified B Corporation™. Pegasus Planning Group is a specialist town planning consultancy and has been appointed by Low Carbon to coordinate the planning process for the project including engagement with the local community. Ultimately, the aim is to submit a planning application for the project, but no application has been made at this time. The site will have a capacity of approximately 49.9 megawatts (MW) of clean renewable electricity and will provide enough energy to power approximately 16,581 homes. This clean power will be provided to the local electricity network. Owing to the current health risks associated with COVID-19, the environment in which we planned to hold consultations means that public drop-in events are not appropriate. However, we are committed to hearing the views of the community on our proposals before we submit a planning application. Therefore, we will be holding a pre-application community digital consultation commencing today, 14th July 2020 which will be available for 3 weeks. This consultation will be conducted via our interactive digital engagement platform, as well as via our offline freepost address and freephone information line. As an important group with a local presence to the proposed project, we would welcome the opportunity to have a telephone or video meeting with you to introduce the proposal and receive your feedback on the proposal. If you would be interested in this, please could you respond with your availability? In the meantime, if you have any questions or queries about our proposals, please do not hesitate to contact me or a member of the team copied into this email. Kind regards Bev Beverley Rodbard-Hedderwick Stakeholder Manager

2

13 Berkeley Street, London. W1J 8DU M +44 (0)7730 880 234

Powering Tomorrow www.lowcarbon.com

Disclaimer: We act as agents for third party Clients in relation to the management of electrical generating assets. This relationship is not advisory and we only act on instructions from and under the authority of these clients. We believe the information contained within this communication to be correct at the time of sending, but neither the accuracy nor completeness of this information should be relied upon and we do not accept any responsibility or liability for any consequences arising from the use of or reliance on the information contained herein, which is entirely at your own risk. Important: Privileged/Confidential Information may be contained in this message. This email communication, including any attachment, is confidential and intended only for the individual(s) or entity named above and to others who have been specifically authorised to receive it. In case you are not the intended recipient, please do not read, copy, use or disclose the contents of this communication to others. Please immediately notify the sender that you have received this email in error by calling the phone number indicated or by email, and delete the email including any attachment(s) subsequently. Registered Name: Low Carbon Limited. Incorporated in England and Wales. Registered Number: 7853501. Registered Office: Second Floor, 13 Berkeley Street, London W1J 8DU. Low Carbon Investment Management Limited is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority under firm reference 722819. Please consider the environment before printing this email. Harry Ramsey

Planner

Pegasus Group

PLANNING | DESIGN | ENVIRONMENT | ECONOMICS | HERITAGE Querns Business Centre | Whitworth Rd | Cirencester | GL7 1RT

T 01285 641717 | E [email protected]

M 07970 973501 |

Birmingham | Bracknell | Bristol | Cambridge | Cirencester | Dublin | East Midlands | Edinburgh | Leeds | Liverpool | London | Manchester | NewcastlePeterborough | Solent

www.pegasusgroup.co.uk

Pegasus Group is the trading name of Pegasus Planning Group Ltd [07277000] registered in England and Wales. This email and any associated files, is intended for the exclusive use of the addressee only. If you are not the intended recipient you should not use the contents nor disclose them to any other person. If you have received this message in error please notify us immediately. We have updated our Privacy Statement in line with the GDPR; please click here to view it.

To help protect your privacy, Micro so ft Office prevented auto matic download of this pictu re from the In ternet.

Please consider the environment before printing this email message.

***IMPORTANT INFORMATION REGARDING PEGASUS GROUP & CORONAVIRUS / COVID-19***

To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.

To help protect your privacy, Microsoft Office prevented automatic download of this picture from the Internet.


October 2020 | HR/RG | P20-0362

APPENDIX 4

PUBLIC NOTICE


October 2020 | HR/RG | P20-0362

APPENDIX 5

WEBINAR INVITATION POSTCARD

Knightcote Road Solar Farm

Webinar followed by Q&AJoin us for a webinar where we will be providing you with an update on Knightcote Road Solar Farm followed by a live Q&A. Details on how to register are provided overleaf.

When:• 3:00pm, 25th August

• 7:30pm, 26th August

The consultation website will be re-opened for a further 7 days (26th

August – 2nd September) to receive any additional comments: https://knightcoteroadsolarfarm.commonplace.is/

If you are unable to comment on our proposal via the website, please use one of the other methods listed below:

Email us at: [email protected]

Call our Freephone information line: 0800 047 8561 (Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm)

Write to us at: Freepost LOW CARBON UK SOLAR DEVELOPMENT

Our consultation closed on the 4th August 2020, however, following feedback, we are pleased to offer an information webinar with live questions from the community.

The consultation website will be re-opened for a further 7 days (26th August – 2nd September) to capture any additional comments you would like to leave.

The webinar will be recorded and made available on the consultation website.

The webinar will be hosted with Zoom. You will be able to join via your computer or, for those not able, you can join via your telephone to listen. You will be able to ask questions via both methods, and details of how to access the webinar will be provided once you have registered.

How do you register?

Please email [email protected] or phone 0800 047 8561 to register.

We will need your name and email or phone number. We will then provide you with the joining details a few days prior to the event.

If you have any questions, please email or call us.

We very much look forward to you joining us.

The Low Carbon Team


October 2020 | HR/RG | P20-0362

APPENDIX 6

FIRST TWO WEBINARS JOINING DETAILS

A Guide for Attending our Webinar

Overview You have been invited to attend the Q&A webinar session on Knightcote Road Solar Farm. This document provides you with a step-by-step guide to accessing the webinar. The webinar will be conducted in a moderated Q&A format. Your audio and video will not be available to be heard or seen by anyone attending the webinar. Questions are submitted via the Q&A button on the bottom of your screen. All questions go through to a member of our team who will manage and collate them all to then be answered by a member of the team after the presentation. Please note the presentation will begin at 3pm, and 7.30pm so you are advised to join slightly before, if possible. You are free to leave and rejoin as many times as possible whilst the webinar is ongoing.

Step-by-step guide to joining the webinar

1. To join your preferred webinar date please click on the corresponding link, or enter the URL directly into your browser: • Tuesday 25 May, 3pm –

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/89476589826?pwd=MG1zMENoOGtyVE9qUXhyMFB3OGlrUT09

• Wednesday 26 May, 7.30pm – https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86998599373?pwd=MlRsNmVKNUJBU3o5RHBnOHA

1UXQrZz09 2. After following this step, the link will take you to the zoom meeting in your browser.

• If Zoom is already downloaded on your computer, select ‘Open Zoom Meetings’ in the pop-up.

• If you have not got Zoom downloaded either: • Select ‘download and run Zoom’; or • Select ‘join from your browser’ if you cannot download or run the application.

3. If you are using your mobile device (smart phone or tablet) you can open in your Chrome or Safari browser. Alternatively, you can download the Zoom app:

• From the Apple App Store. • From the Google Play Store.



https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86998599373?pwd=MlRsNmVKNUJBU3o5RHBnOHA1UXQrZz09

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86998599373?pwd=MlRsNmVKNUJBU3o5RHBnOHA1UXQrZz09

https://apps.apple.com/bf/app/zoom-cloud-meetings/id546505307

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=us.zoom.videomeetings&hl=en_GB

5. If you have internet connectivity issues, it is also possible to dial-in to the event from a phone. Please note that if you dial in you will only receive the audio element of the webinar. To join via a phone, please dial any of the numbers below:

• +44 203 481 5237 • +44 203 481 5240 • +44 203 901 7895 • +44 131 460 1196 • +44 203 051 2874

Then enter the corresponding Webinar ID:

• Tuesday 25 August: 894 7658 9826 • Wednesday 26 August: 869 9859 9373

6. When you enter the event, you will be prompted to enter your details.

7. After entering these details, you will enter the event room. If you have entered this

room ahead of the event start time, you will be met by a greeting screen similar to the below image:

8. The webinar will begin with a presentation provided by the project team. This will

then be followed by a Q&A session.

Participating in the event

• During the event, your audio and video will not be visible to anybody in the webinar session.

• Whilst this presentation is going on, please feel free to ask any questions by using the Q&A button at the bottom of your screen.

• If you are dialling in via phone, please enter *9 to raise your hand. This will indicate to the team that you would like to ask a question.

o The team will then be able to temporarily unmute your telephone, so that you can ask a question.

After the event

• If you have any follow-up questions, please feel free to send these to [email protected] afterwards.

• We will make the presentation available following the event.

Troubleshooting common issues

• Should you have any issues accessing or viewing the webinar, please visit the zoom webinar attendee help centre here


https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/115004954946-Joining-a-Webinar-Attendee-


October 2020 | HR/RG | P20-0362

APPENDIX 7

THIRD WEBINAR INVITATION POSTCARD


Webinar followed by Q&AJoin us for a webinar where we will be providing you with an update on Knightcote Road Solar Farm followed by a live Q&A. Details on how to register are provided overleaf.

When:• 7:30pm, 17th September

The consultation website will close on 21st September to receive any additional comments: https://knightcoteroadsolarfarm.commonplace.is/

If you are unable to comment on our proposal via the website, please use one of the other methods listed below:

Email us at: [email protected]

Call our Freephone information line: 0800 047 8561 (Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm)

Write to us at: Freepost LOW CARBON UK SOLAR DEVELOPMENT

Our consultation closed on the 4th August 2020, however, following feedback, we are pleased to offer an information webinar with live questions from the community.

The consultation website will close on Monday, 21st September to capture any additional comments you would like to leave.

The webinar will be recorded and made available on the consultation website.

The webinar will be hosted with Zoom. You will be able to join via your computer or, for those not able, you can join via your telephone to listen. You will be able to ask questions via both methods, and details of how to access the webinar will be provided once you have registered.

Exhibition pop-up boards will be on display at Bishop’s Itchington Community Centre (Ladbroke Rd, Bishop’s Itchington, Southam CV47 2RN) and an information board will be outside Knightcote Village Hall from Friday, 11th September until Monday, 21st September.

How do you register?

Please email [email protected] or phone 0800 047 8561 to register.

We will need your name and email or phone number. We will then provide you with the joining details a few days prior to the event.

If you have any questions, please email or call us.

We very much look forward to you joining us.

The Low Carbon Team


October 2020 | HR/RG | P20-0362

APPENDIX 8

THIRD WEBINAR JOINING DETAILS

A Guide for Attending our Webinar

Overview You have been invited to attend the Q&A webinar session on Knightcote Road Solar Farm on Thursday 17 September 2020. This document provides you with a step-by-step guide to accessing the webinar. The webinar will be conducted in a moderated Q&A format. Your audio and video will not be available to be heard or seen by anyone attending the webinar. Questions are submitted via the Q&A button on the bottom of your screen. All questions go through to a member of our team who will manage and collate them all to then be answered by a member of the team after the presentation. Please note the presentation will begin at 7.30pm so you are advised to join slightly before, if possible. You are free to leave and rejoin as many times as possible whilst the webinar is ongoing.

Step-by-step guide to joining the webinar

1. To join your preferred webinar date please click on the corresponding link, or enter the URL directly into your browser: • Thursday 17 September, 7.30pm –

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86371966385 • After following this step, the link will take you to the zoom meeting in your

browser. • If Zoom is already downloaded on your computer, select ‘Open Zoom

Meetings’ in the pop-up. • If you have not got Zoom downloaded either: • Select ‘download and run Zoom’; or • Select ‘join from your browser’ if you cannot download or run the

application.

2. If you are using your mobile device (smart phone or tablet) you can open in your Chrome or Safari browser. Alternatively, you can download the Zoom app: • From the Apple App Store. • From the Google Play Store.

https://us02web.zoom.us/j/86371966385

https://apps.apple.com/bf/app/zoom-cloud-meetings/id546505307

https://play.google.com/store/apps/details?id=us.zoom.videomeetings&hl=en_GB

3. If you have internet connectivity issues, it is also possible to dial-in to the event from a phone. Please note that if you dial in you will only receive the audio element of the webinar. To join via a phone, please dial any of the numbers below: • +44 203 481 5237 • +44 203 481 5240 • +44 203 901 7895 • +44 131 460 1196 • +44 203 051 2874

Then enter the corresponding Webinar ID: • Thursday 17 September: 863 7196 6385

4. When you enter the event, you will be prompted to enter your details.

5. After entering these details, you will enter the event room. If you have entered

this room ahead of the event start time, you will be met by a greeting screen.

6. The webinar will begin with a presentation provided by the project team. This will then be followed by a Q&A session.

Participating in the event

• During the event, your audio and video will not be visible to anybody in the webinar session.

• Whilst this presentation is going on, please feel free to ask any questions by using the Q&A button at the bottom of your screen.

• If you are dialling in via phone, please enter *9 to raise your hand. This will indicate to the team that you would like to ask a question.

o The team will then be able to temporarily unmute your telephone, so that you can ask a question.

After the event

• If you have any follow-up questions, please feel free to send these to [email protected] afterwards.

• We will make the presentation available following the event.

Troubleshooting common issues

• Should you have any issues accessing or viewing the webinar, please visit the zoom webinar attendee help centre here


https://support.zoom.us/hc/en-us/articles/115004954946-Joining-a-Webinar-Attendee-


October 2020 | HR/RG | P20-0362

APPENDIX 9

CONSULTATION POSTER

Knightcote Road Solar FarmWebinar followed by Q&AJoin us for a webinar at 7.30pm on 17th September 2020 where we will be providing an update on Knightcote Road Solar Farm followed by a live Q&A.How to join?Please email [email protected] or phone 0800 047 8561 to register.We will need your name and email or phone number. We will then provide you with the joining details.You will be able to join via your computer or, for those not able, you can join via your telephone to listen. You will be able to ask questions via both methods.The consultation website will close on 21st September to receive any additional comments: https://knightcoteroadsolarfarm.commonplace.is/If you are unable to comment on our proposal via the website, please use one of the other methods listed below:Email us at: [email protected] our Freephone information line: 0800 047 8561 (Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm)Write to us at: Freepost LOW CARBON UK SOLAR DEVELOPMENTWe very much look forward to you joining us.The Low Carbon Team


October 2020 | HR/RG | P20-0362

APPENDIX 10

A1 CONSULTATION BOARD


Low Carbon are proposing to develop Knightcote Road Solar Farm on land located approximately 750m south of Bishop’s Itchington and approximately 900m north-west of Knightcote.

Knightcote Road Solar Farm would generate power, approximately 49.9 megawatts (MW) through photovoltaic solar panels, providing clean power into the local distribution network (LDN).

The proposed development would consist of rows of solar PV panels up to 2.7 metres high. Associated infrastructure would include inverters, substations, internal site access roads, landscaping, CCTV cameras and security fencing.

Only a small fraction of the site will contain hardstanding, which is required to support the various cabins and associated infrastructure - leaving the vast majority of the site as grassland available for sheep to graze, including the land directly under the panels.


We want to give the community an opportunity to provide their views before we submit a planning application.

Join us for a webinar at Thursday 17th September at 7:30pm where we will be providing you with an update on Knightcote Road Solar Farm followed by a live Q&A.

To receive the registration details, please email us at [email protected] or call 0800

047 8561 for joining details.

Send your comments/feedback to our proposal via the following means: • Consultation website: https://knightcoteroadsolarfarm.commonplace.is/

• Post: Freepost LOW CARBON UK SOLAR DEVELOPMENT

• E-mail: [email protected] and title your e-mail “Knightcote Road Solar Farm” • Telephone: Freephone Information Line: 0800 047 8561 (Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm)

Please provide your comments by Monday 21st September when the consultation closes.

What happens next?

We will review all comments received and have regard to these before deciding whether to submit a planning application to Stratford-On-Avon District Council.

The planning application will include a Consultation Report, providing feedback on comments received and how we have taken them into consideration, which will be shared via the consultation website.

49.9MW Solar

farm capacity

49.9Homes

powered each year

49.9Tonnes of

CO2 saved each year

5,175Cars taken off the road


October 2020 | HR/RG | P20-0362

APPENDIX 11

PULL-UP CONSULTATION BOARDS

P20-0362

Who is Low Carbon?Low Carbon, the developer of this project is a British-owned investment and asset management company committed to making a positive and significant impact on the causes of climate change with the goal of a low carbon future.

Knightcote Road Solar FarmLow Carbon are proposing to develop Knightcote Road Solar Farm on land located approximately 750m south of Bishop’s Itchington and approximately 900m north-west of Knightcote. Knightcote Road Solar Farm would generate power, approximately 49.9 megawatts (MW) through photovoltaic solar panels, providing clean power into the local distribution network (LDN).

The proposed development would consist of rows of solar PV panels up to 2.7 metres high. Associated infrastructure would include inverters, substations, internal site access roads, landscaping, CCTV cameras abd security fencing. Only a small fraction of the site will contain hardstanding, which is required to support the various cabins and assocaited infrastructure - leaving the vast majority of the site as grassland available for sheep to graze, including the land directly under the panels.

Indicative Site layout plan and biodiversity planting

P20-0362

Commenting on the projectWe want to give the community an opportunity to provide their views before we submit a planning application. Join us for a webinar at Thursday 17th September at 7:30pm where we will be providing you with an update on Knightcote Road Solar Farm followed by a live Q&A.

To receive the registration details, please email us at [email protected] or call 0800 047 8561 for joining details.Send your comments/feedback to our proposal via the following means: • Consultation website:

https://knightcoteroadsolarfarm.commonplace.is/ • Post: Freepost LOW CARBON UK SOLAR DEVELOPMENT • E-mail: [email protected] and title your e-mail

“Knightcote Road Solar Farm.” • Telephone: Freephone Information Line: 0800 047 8561

(Monday-Friday, 9am-5pm)Please provide your comments by Monday 21st September when the consultation closes.

What happens next?We will review all comments received and have regard to these before deciding whether to submit a planning application to Stratford-On-Avon District Council. The planning application will include a Consultation Report, providing feedback on comments received and how we have taken them into consideration, which will be shared via the consultation website.

49.9MW Solar

farm capacity

16,581Homes

powered each year

11,210Tonnes of

CO2 saved each year

5,175cars taken off the road

P20-0362

Key environemental considerationsThese include landscaoe and visual, ecology and biodiversity, flood risk, archaeology and heritage, transport and access, and land quality and management. To support a prospective planning application, Low Carbon has instructed specialist consultants to carry out studies to assess potential impacts and where necessary, identify management and mitigation measures.The proposed site is not covered by any designations that relate to biodiversity, landscape, cultural heritage or other, e.g.Special Protection Area, Scheduled Monument or Area of Oustanding Natural Beauty. It has therefore been determined that the site is not of any particular environmental ‘sensitivity’ and the specialist feedback to date suggests that the proposed development would not result in any unacceptable environmental impacts.Low Carbon is proposing a number of management and mitigation measures, including a landscaping scheme, biodeversity enhancement, continuation of agricultural use (opportunity for sheep grazing between and beneath panels), retention of existing hedgerows and trees, archaeological investigation, an environmental management plan and a construction traffic management plan.

www.pegasusgroup.co.uk

Pegasus GroupPegasus House

Querns Business CentreWhitworth Road

CirencesterGlos

GL7 1RT

Telephone: 01285 641717

COPYRIGHT The contents of this document must not be copied or reproduced in whole or in part without the written consent of Pegasus Planning Group.

Crown copyright. All rights reserved, Licence number 100042093.

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