Campaigners in Buckinghamshire have organized a walk to protest against plans to install thousands of solar panels on prime agricultural land. The proposed Rosefield Solar Farm would cover 2,000 acres of farmland near Winslow and The Claydons, and would provide enough clean energy to power over 57,000 homes. However, local residents and politicians are opposed to the plan, citing concerns about the impact on the countryside, food security, and the livelihoods of farmers.
MP Greg Smith, who represents Mid Buckinghamshire, joined the campaigners and described the plan as “inefficient technology that trashes the countryside and damages our food security.” He argued that solar panels should be installed on rooftops of warehouses and distribution centers instead of prime agricultural land. Local councillor Frank Mahon also expressed his opposition to the plan, saying that North Buckinghamshire has become a “dumping ground” for major infrastructure projects, including HS2, East West Rail, and a mega prison.
The campaigners, who are part of the Claydons Solar Action Group, organized the walk as part of a national community walk day to highlight the issue of rural solar farm development. Similar walks took place in other counties, including Cambridgeshire, Northamptonshire, Norfolk, and Bedfordshire. The group argues that the solar farm would harm the local environment and wildlife, and that the land should be used for farming instead.
A government spokesperson defended the plan, saying that solar energy is a key part of the UK’s mission to become a clean energy superpower. They noted that solar farms cover only 0.1% of the UK’s total land area and bring significant benefits to the public and energy security. The planning process for the Rosefield Solar Farm is ongoing, with a consultation having taken place between September and December 2024.
The debate highlights the challenges of balancing the need for renewable energy with concerns about the impact on the countryside and local communities. While solar energy is a crucial part of the UK’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions, the location and scale of solar farms must be carefully considered to minimize harm to the environment and local residents. The outcome of the planning process for the Rosefield Solar Farm will be closely watched by campaigners and local residents, who are determined to protect their countryside and way of life.