Changes to a proposed solar farm on land near Lancaster University have been approved by councillors.
The revised scheme sees an alteration to the layout of the site, on land east of Hazelrigg Lane, with slightly fewer solar panels and roads than previously applied for, and additional landscaping, as well as an existing pond being retained.
Planning permission was given by councillors last year for a solar farm to be developed by Lancaster City Council.
A report discussed at a planning regulatory committee meeting this week stated that changes are needed following a more detailed study of the site.
The report for the planning committee also states the principal of developing a solar farm there has already been deemed as acceptable, and concerns about sunlight glare from panels to students flats or other homes in the area had been addressed.
The report said: “Whilst the broad arrangement and orientation of the solar panels remains largely the same, the key area of change is the omission of panels in the north eastern corner, as well as the retention of the pond which was to be removed as part of the previous scheme.
‘’The access road has been adjusted to suit the layout alterations to the solar panel arrays as well as responding to rising and falling slopes.
‘’When compared to the previously consented scheme, the proposal is more efficient, only extending the road to elements requiring the more regular maintenance. The proliferation of access roads is reduced.”
There was one objection from a local resident, while Scotforth Parish Council expressed their support.
In recommending the proposals, Lancaster City Council planning officers said: “Overall, the negative effects would be ameliorated through mitigation including retention of existing vegetation, and an extensive and robust landscaping scheme.
‘’The adverse effects are more than sufficiently offset by the significant contribution the development will make towards the council’s initiative to tackle climate change and to the biodiversity value of the site through enhancements. On balance, the considerable environmental and public benefits far outweigh the adverse impacts.”
Upon being put to the vote, 15 Councillors voted in favour of the proposal with none against and no abstentions.
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