Langford Solar Farm plans approved after appeal

Plans for a large solar farm in Devon have been approved

Proposals for a solar farm larger than 70 football pitches have been given the green light after planning permission was initially refused.

Mid Devon District Council had originally rejected plans for Langford Solar Farm near Cullompton.

The removal of land for food production and potential impact on the landscape were among the council's concerns.

But the government overturned the decision after an inquiry led by the Planning Inspectorate.

It said the plans had "strong national and local policy support" and the potential for electricity production was a "significant" factor in favour of approving the 60-hectare (148 acre) solar farm.

It also said the potential for direct and indirect jobs during the construction phase was a factor in its decision.

Meanwhile, the impact on the landscape and potential visual effects were found to be "very limited" drawbacks of the proposal.

The Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities agreed with the inspector's view that the proposal would not lead to harmful loss of agricultural land and sheep grazing could still occur.

Mid Devon District Council had taken expert advice and decided against defending its original decision to the inquiry.

JBM Solar, which is behind the plans, said: "On the back of a year of record high energy prices which has fuelled a discussion on energy security, as well as a cost of living crisis, there is a role for solar to deliver clean and affordable energy to UK communities.

"This site will deliver tangible benefits by the end of 2024, powering the equivalent electricity needs of over 10,000 homes annually, helping to keep the lights on and people warm that winter."