Plans outlined for new large-scale solar farm in Sussex

Low Carbon The area in Eastbourne where the solar farm could be builtLow Carbon
If approved, construction could take between 12-18 weeks

A 31.9-hectare (78.8-acre) solar farm could be built in Eastbourne, if a planning application is approved.

The application, which has been submitted to Eastbourne Borough Council, is for land south of Cross Levels Way.

It is estimated the solar panels would generate enough energy to power approximately 6,400 homes annually.

The developer of the project, Low Carbon, says it will continue to engage with the local community on the plans.

Permission is being sought to operate for 40 years, at which point the solar farm would be decommissioned and the land returned to its previous agricultural state.

Some residents have raised concerns about the plan, including its impact on local wildlife.

Low Carbon said the plan could deliver "significant biodiversity and ecological enhancements" to the area.

A decision is set to be made on the application by 28 February.

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