A proposal for a vast solar farm at Moat Farm near Newent has been denied permission, after raising worries that Gloucestershire could become overloaded with solar developments, earning the nickname “Solarshire.” The 49-megawatt project by Elgin Energy EsCo Limited, covering 162.6 acres of a 200-acre site, was discussed at the Forest of Dean District Council’s development management committee meeting on July 8.
Councilors and residents expressed serious concerns about the cumulative effects of multiple large solar farms in the Newent area, fearing the creation of a sprawling corridor of solar panels stretching along the B4215 between Newent and Gloucester. Similar apprehensions have been voiced about the Vale of Berkeley region across the River Severn.
While the developers emphasized the project’s compatibility with national and local renewable energy policies, highlighting its potential contribution to the UK’s net zero targets and climate emergency response, local opposition was strong. Newent Town Council criticized the proposal as overdevelopment that would overshadow nearby homes and raise road safety issues due to increased traffic during construction. They also objected to using productive arable land that has supported crops for over 25 years.
READ MORE: Selfies and Scooter Stunts Force Closure of Dangerous Oxfordshire Railway Crossing
READ MORE: Lord Alan Sugar Takes a Bold Jab at Roman Kemp’s Haircut in Playful Online Exchange
Taynton Parish Council described the scale of the farm as “very large,” noting that it would be the third major solar farm in a small area alongside two ongoing applications. They highlighted the excessive visual impact and noted that the energy output would surpass local demand, meaning power would be exported to the national grid. Job creation prospects were also questioned.
Additionally, Hartpury, Rudford, and Highleadon Parish Councils pointed to the potential sacrifice of at least 700 acres of farmland within a 5-10 mile radius—comparable to six full-size golf courses. Each proposed farm ranks among England’s largest, intensifying concerns over land use and landscape impact.
Forest of Dean Councillor Patrick Kyne acknowledged the complexity of the decision, recognizing the broader national energy needs despite the reluctance locals feel about having solar farms adjacent to their properties. Councillor Dave Tradgett emphasized the value of preserving agricultural land near population centers like Newent.
Councillor Gill Moseley highlighted complaints from residents about why solar panels are not installed on roofs instead of farmland, stressing that the cumulative effect of existing solar farms—including one covering 28 fields—could transform the region into “Solarshire” rather than Gloucestershire.
Councillor Simon Phelps underscored the superior quality of the farmland, recalling its productive use for wheat, barley, and oilseed rape crops. He criticized the soil assessments conducted by Defra and raised concerns about the impact on the landscape and national food production capacity.
Ultimately, the committee voted eight to one, with one abstention, to reject the solar farm application, aligning with the officers’ recommendation and reflecting the strong community and council opposition to the development.