Plans for 180-acre solar farm on the outskirts of Hartlepool go on display

Canadian Solar and Novergy are exploring plans for a new development on a 180-acre site off Worset Lane, in Hartlepool.

A consultation for people to learn more about the proposal was held at Hart Village Hall on Monday, March 17.

They asked about issues including the visual impact, potential glare and construction traffic.

Organisers say numbers were lower than expected due to the coronavirus situation but say they had positive talks with those who did attend.

James Jamieson, of planning agents Intelligent Alternatives, said: “We had some positive conversations with locals and provided clarification more than discussed problems.

“The parish clerk passed on some concerns which will be addressed if and when it moves to planning application including the visual impact on the road to the north.

“It was explained extra hedges and trees can be put in which wouldn’t show the panels.”

Potential glare from the panels to road users was also raised.

Mr Jamieson added: “The panels are designed to absorb rather than reflect light and are set off at an oblique angle so we don’t anticipate any issues there.

“We also had some positive discussions about what money from a proposed community benefit fund could go towards locally.”

Intelligent Alternatives the solar farm could provide 50 megawatts of electricity a year for the National Grid.

That is enough to power the equivalent of 15,000 homes, or around a third of the properties in Hartlepool.

It adds the development would contribute to tackling climate change and help the Government meet its net zero carbon emissions 2050 target.

The precise number of solar panels has not yet been decided but their maximum height above ground would be 2.5 metres (8.2ft), reduced from three metres.

Sheep would continue to graze in between the panels on the land.

Mr Jamieson said: “Following the event the clients will weigh up the feedback and make a decision whether or not to make a planning application.”