Residents express concern at solar farm scheme

Plans for a new solar farm and electric vehicle (EV) charging station have been criticised by residents.

The proposed development, in Kingsthorpe, Northampton, included a 5MW solar farm, an EV charging facility, a retail unit, and two drive-thru restaurants.

The site, located on land off Welford Road, next to The Windhover pub, has drawn a backlash on social media, with one resident posting: "Insane idea, [the area] is always flooding."

The applicant, Pegasus Group, said the development would help with "ecological enhancement".

Residents were first told of the plans in September last year when leaflets were posted through their doors and Pegasus Group, held a public meeting.

Another resident commented: "There are so many empty shops and outlets in nearby Kingsthorpe and the town centre... It would seem a far more sensible approach to me [to use these buildings] than building on an area that is often under water [due to flooding]."

Sam Rumens, Conservative West Northamptonshire councillor for Kingsthorpe North, said: "I am having a meet next week with some of the organisers of the public meeting to decide what the next steps should be."

The deadline for public comments on the planning application is 6 February, with a final decision expected from the council in April.

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