Solar Plan Rejected As ‘Alien’ Feature Lands On Council Radar

A proposed 120m solar panel array next to the Isle of Wight National Landscape (IWNL) has been refused as an ‘alien urbanising feature’.

Mr and Mrs Pearce submitted an application for a renewable energy project with associated infrastructure on land at Dodpits Lane near Chessell.

SJC Town Country Pand lanning Consultancy previously said installing the double row of panels would support sustainable rural development and contribute to the Island’s low-carbon energy transition.

Three letters of objection, including from Calbourne Parish Council, were sent to County Hall before the refusal.

Grounds of opposition raised included there being unsatisfactory access, industrialisation of the countryside and the site being next to the IWNL.

However, 20 representations in favour of the plans raised points such as the proposal’s support for green energy, in keeping with council net zero aims, its low visual impact and energy security.

The Isle of Wight Council’s decision report on application 25/01526/FUL said:

“The proposal, by reason of its location, scale and appearance, would have a significant adverse impact upon the rural, agricultural locality, and would detract from its open, undeveloped character, in particular upon the setting of the designated IWNL to the south.

“The benefits of the development would not outweigh this significant harm and there are no measures that could be secured by condition that would mitigate the harm.

“The access is unsatisfactory to serve the proposed development by reason of unacceptable visibility.”

SJC Town and Country Planning Consultancy’s submitted statement said:

“The panels are discreetly positioned to minimise visual impact, avoiding harm to key views and integrate with the natural contours of the site, preserving the countryside aesthetic and respecting the rural character of Dodpits Lane as well as the wider area.

“The proposal avoids harm to priority habitats and supports biodiversity goals…with no impact on hedgerows, trees, or ecological corridors.

"The installation is reversible and non-invasive, ensuring long-term protection of the site’s historic and environmental value.”