Barnsdale in solar farm threat
Barnsdale, the demonstration garden created by late broadcaster and GN columnist Geoff Hamilton, could be forced to close due to the construction of a 200acre solar power plant.
Geoff’s son Nick, who now runs the garden and associated facilities, is contesting the proposal, which would see green fields adjacent to the much-visited Rutland venue covered with solar panels at least 3m high and BESS lithium battery units as big as shipping containers. Nick is concerned the enormous installation will become a visual eyesore, increase flooding, and that the constant noise from motors tilting the panels could disturb wildlife.
“Barnsdale is an important visitor attraction,” said Nick. “It’s a little bit of paradise in the countryside. We garden organically and sustainably. There is nothing wrong with solar power, but it needs to be the right thing, in the right place, at the right time. This proposal will take up good agricultural land used for cereals and rape seed production. I’m responsible for the livelihoods of 34 staff and, if the installation puts off visitors, it could mean closure.”
Visit www.petitions.net/ stop_the_solar_farm_next_ to_barnsdale_gardens.