A proposal for an 18.5MW solar farm has been refused planning permission following an inquiry held in February this year. Although the Inspector recognised the significant benefits associated with renewable energy, he ultimately concluded that these benefits were outweighed by the harm to numerous heritage assets and the Dorset National Landscape.

In a policy context that is supportive of solar farm development, this decision is an important reminder that such development is not automatically acceptable in every location, with landscape and heritage designations capable of providing strong reasons for refusal. The appeal decision also includes an interesting discussion on the weight to give National Policy Statements EN-1 and EN-3 in the context of a s.78 appeal (see paragraphs 124-126). A link to the appeal decision can be found: here.

Michael Feeney acted for the successful Rule 6 party.