April 2024 : Decision to dismiss the Appeal and refuse planning permission
On 8th April 2024 HBC received the following letter from the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities stating that the appeal was dismissed and planning permission was refused.
See page 1 of the letter below. For the full letter click here and view the Appeal Decision, which explains the reasons for their decision.
See page 1 of the letter below. For the full letter click here and view the Appeal Decision, which explains the reasons for their decision.
December 2023
The decision from the Department of Levelling Up, Housing and Communities was expected in December 2023 but they have postponed the decision until the new year.
Solar Plant Inquiry
The Inquiry finished on Friday 3rd November 2022.
Click here to find below the Closing submissions from our Counsel, Wayne Beglan.
It will some months until the Secretary of State makes his decision.
Click here to find below the Closing submissions from our Counsel, Wayne Beglan.
It will some months until the Secretary of State makes his decision.
Solar Plant Appeal Timetable
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A letter sent to all those who responded to the planning application dated 4th October 2022.
It provides details of the Public Inquiry. |
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Guardian article: Ministers hope to ban solar projects from most English farms
Click here to read The Guardian article 10/10/22 that is very encouraging for our Solar Plant appeal.
Secretary of State Calls in Solar Plant decision
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The Secretary of State has decided to ‘call in’ the Solar Plant. This the first application of its type to go down this route. As you can see from the letter below, the Inspector will no longer be issuing a decision but will be preparing a report and making a recommendation.
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September 2022: Last Update and Appeal Meeting 22/9/22
Ann Goddard and Helen Stammers attended the Update and Appeal meeting on behalf of EBGBS on 6/9/22. The meeting was very informative and eye opening and we recommend you attend the next meeting if you possible can. The Combined Objectors Group are running their last meeting on 22 September 2022 - see details below. All EBGBS members and friends are invited to attend.
They are also compiling information on footpath usage - this is to evidence the substantial loss that will be experienced if the Plant goes ahead. Click here to down load the questionnaire and return directly to Janet Engles.
They are also compiling information on footpath usage - this is to evidence the substantial loss that will be experienced if the Plant goes ahead. Click here to down load the questionnaire and return directly to Janet Engles.
July 2022: Solar Plant Appeal
An appeal and new application have been submitted to The Planning Inspectorate despite a record number of objections and having been unanimously refused by Hertsmere Planning Committee.
EBGBS have officially joined the list of objectors and will be objecting to the appeal and new application.
The local response must be strong and your support is needed.
Click here for full details.
EBGBS have officially joined the list of objectors and will be objecting to the appeal and new application.
The local response must be strong and your support is needed.
Click here for full details.
January 2022: The Times Letter
See below an interesting letter from Professor Mike Adler Chairman of the Solar Campaign Alliance.
November 2021: Application denied
On 11th November 2021 Hertsmere Borough Council’s planning committee met to discuss the proposed solar farm. A confident, comprehensive proposal was put forward on behalf of the applicants Enso, Head of Planning Ross Whear supported the proposal, however, due to the scale and location of the site, the fact it on green belt land and that 1900+ local residents responded against the proposal, the councillors decided not to go ahead with the solar farm. EBGBS are very pleased with the result which shows that a huge response from residents really does impact decision making.
November 2021:
10th November – Article in Barnet Times
Oliver Dowden issues statement ahead of Hertsmere solar farm decision
The article stated:
The Member of Parliament for Hertsmere has questioned whether plans for a huge solar farm are "appropriate" ahead of a key decision meeting.
The scheme has drawn nearly 2,000 objections - the most in the council's history - but it has been recommended by the council for approval.
Click here to read the Borehamwood Times article 10/11/21
Oliver Dowden issues statement ahead of Hertsmere solar farm decision
The article stated:
The Member of Parliament for Hertsmere has questioned whether plans for a huge solar farm are "appropriate" ahead of a key decision meeting.
The scheme has drawn nearly 2,000 objections - the most in the council's history - but it has been recommended by the council for approval.
Click here to read the Borehamwood Times article 10/11/21
July 2021: Daily Mail article
The Daily Mail have published an article highlighting the dangers of solar farms.
This is yet another huge concern for the EBGBS regarding the suggested plans for a solar plant.
Click here to read the Daily Mail article 10/07/21
This is yet another huge concern for the EBGBS regarding the suggested plans for a solar plant.
Click here to read the Daily Mail article 10/07/21
May 2021: Mail on Sunday article
The Mail on Sunday published an article criticising Solar Plants.
EBGBS have shared this article with local planners and councillors in the fight against the development of the Solar Plant under consideration for our local area.
Click here to read the article for the Mail On Sunday 30/05/21
The Mail on Sunday published an article criticising Solar Plants.
EBGBS have shared this article with local planners and councillors in the fight against the development of the Solar Plant under consideration for our local area.
Click here to read the article for the Mail On Sunday 30/05/21
May 2021: CPRE, APC Reports
Amendments to plans continue, which means the public are able to continue objecting to the Solar Plant up to the day the application is heard.
Click below to read two interesting reports available from the HBC Planning portal are:
Report from Campaign for Rural England
Aldenham Parish Council Report
Click below to read two interesting reports available from the HBC Planning portal are:
Report from Campaign for Rural England
Aldenham Parish Council Report
April 2021: Facebook page
Support is strong and increasing to Save Our Greenbelt. Stop The Solar Plant. Aldenham, Radlett & Letchmore 💚For more information please go to their Facebook page
Clive Glover posted this message of 16th April 2021
Yet more documents added to the application this week including a new Glint & Glare report and new/updated Landscale & Ecology report. These are all modifiying the application and doing so after the closing date for comments. However, the Head of Planning at Hertsmere assures me anyone can still comment on these or any other documents.
I have asked whether the number of new document and consequent changes should mean opening up the whole application for comments again. No response yet though....
The application continues to be modified and as long as they do the deadline for responding to the site remains open.
If you haven't responded and would like to, it's not too late!
Clive Glover posted this message of 16th April 2021
Yet more documents added to the application this week including a new Glint & Glare report and new/updated Landscale & Ecology report. These are all modifiying the application and doing so after the closing date for comments. However, the Head of Planning at Hertsmere assures me anyone can still comment on these or any other documents.
I have asked whether the number of new document and consequent changes should mean opening up the whole application for comments again. No response yet though....
The application continues to be modified and as long as they do the deadline for responding to the site remains open.
If you haven't responded and would like to, it's not too late!
March 2021: Key opinions on Solar Plant
There have been 1,400 objections logged against Enso Green Holdings plans for a solar plant on green belt land in Elstree.
This news report from Borehamwood Times highlights the views of 6 key consultees on the plans to build a 130-hectare solar farm, which is equivalent to over 240 football pitches.
The report includes responses from:
us at Elstree and Borehamwood Greenbelt Society,
"Against this is the loss of 300 acres of agricultural land and the ugly scarring of our countryside by the solar panels and the infrastructure associated with them. The fact that the panels can be removed after 35 years does not mean that they will be and so the loss might be permanent."
County councillor Caroline Clapper,
"Having studied the implications of this particular proposal carefully, there are countless valid planning reasons why this application should be refused, and the ‘very special circumstances’ that the applicant has put forward do not outweigh the harm and impact this would have to our Green Belt, in my considered view."
Elstree Aerodrome,
In his comments, manager at the aerodrome, Michael Murphy, confirmed Elstree Aerodrome has "no safeguarding objections to the development as proposed".
Oliver Dowden, Hertsmere MP,
"very legitimate concerns have been raised with me, in particular about the size and scope of what is proposed and the impact it could have on our green open spaces."
The Environment Agency,
The Environment Agency has no objections to the solar farm proposal except on the condition that an adequate drainage system is installed.
The Public,
Nearly 1,400 objections shows the strength of feeling from Hertsmere residents regarding this application. Opposition to the scheme has gathered momentum thanks to a campaign group called 'Say No to Enso Power Plant'.
This news report from Borehamwood Times highlights the views of 6 key consultees on the plans to build a 130-hectare solar farm, which is equivalent to over 240 football pitches.
The report includes responses from:
us at Elstree and Borehamwood Greenbelt Society,
"Against this is the loss of 300 acres of agricultural land and the ugly scarring of our countryside by the solar panels and the infrastructure associated with them. The fact that the panels can be removed after 35 years does not mean that they will be and so the loss might be permanent."
County councillor Caroline Clapper,
"Having studied the implications of this particular proposal carefully, there are countless valid planning reasons why this application should be refused, and the ‘very special circumstances’ that the applicant has put forward do not outweigh the harm and impact this would have to our Green Belt, in my considered view."
Elstree Aerodrome,
In his comments, manager at the aerodrome, Michael Murphy, confirmed Elstree Aerodrome has "no safeguarding objections to the development as proposed".
Oliver Dowden, Hertsmere MP,
"very legitimate concerns have been raised with me, in particular about the size and scope of what is proposed and the impact it could have on our green open spaces."
The Environment Agency,
The Environment Agency has no objections to the solar farm proposal except on the condition that an adequate drainage system is installed.
The Public,
Nearly 1,400 objections shows the strength of feeling from Hertsmere residents regarding this application. Opposition to the scheme has gathered momentum thanks to a campaign group called 'Say No to Enso Power Plant'.
February 2021: Solar Plant
The deadline has passed for responding to Hertsmere Planning Department regarding the planning application submitted by Elstree Green Limited seeking permission for the construction and operation for 35 years for a grid-connected solar photovoltaic farm with battery storage and other ancillary infrastructure on land north of Butterfly Lane and surrounding Hilfield Farm, and west of Hilfield Lane.
Read here what local Politicians have said about the Solar Plant:
Click here for response by Oliver Dowden MP
Extract "Nonetheless, very legitimate concerns have been raised with me, in particular about the size and scope of what is proposed and the impact it could have on our green open spaces. It is therefore very important that the Council properly consider the impact that this application would have on our ability to maintain the distinct and rural character of the countryside around Bushey and Radlett."
Response by Cllr Caroline Clapper on Facebook on 21st February 2021
STATEMENT RE: SOLAR PLANT PLANNING APPLICATION
Whilst I have been in frequent communications with many residents about this matter from the outset, I have started to see a number of requests from others for me to make my thoughts public on this application, which I am more than happy to do.
As County Councillor for Watling Division (Radlett, Aldenham & Elstree), and also as a Hertsmere Borough Councillor, I am elected to represent all residents, and to assist in protecting the area from potential threats, including those to our beloved green belt.
I have always been entirely supportive of the Green Agenda and indeed voted for our ‘Climate Emergency’ policy at Hertsmere Borough Council. However, I could not be supportive of this Solar Plant application, because having examined this proposal closely, I do not believe it is Green, nor does it fulfil our Green Agenda. The removal of this much of our Green Belt in Aldenham - whether as a temporary measure or not - is something I would never support.
Having studied the implications of this particular proposal carefully, there are countless valid planning reasons why this application should be refused, and the ‘very special circumstances’ that the applicant has put forward do not outweigh the harm and impact this would have to our Green Belt, in my considered view.
Since the very start I have been working closely with the founders of the campaign to refuse this application, as well as other residents groups, local schools and surrounding villages, to assist in joining up the message and bringing all stakeholders together to find the appropriate expertise and advice, and to try and raise awareness with clear and succinct messaging. I have been lending my support wherever possible to assist with this campaign.
When this application ultimately comes to Committee (which I will not be sitting on), I shall be strongly advocating for residents against this proposal and until that point, every resident can be assured that I will continue to do everything I can to support and assist the refusal campaign.
See below for the EBGBS response.
January 2021 : Solar Panel Development
130-hectare solar farm near Aldenham
Plans for the development have been published.
Click here for details and route to commenting on this project.
The summary is:
Case no: 21/0050/FULE
Address: Land North Of Butterfly Lane, Land Surrounding Hilfield Farm And Land West Of Hilfield Lane Aldenham
Proposal: Installation of renewable led energy generating station comprising ground-mounted photovoltaic solar arrays and battery-based electricity storage containers together with substation, inverter/transformer stations, site accesses, internal access tracks, security measures, access gates, other ancillary infrastructure, landscaping and biodiversity enhancements.
Status: Awaiting decision
EBGBS, have responded on behalf of the society.
Click here to read the letter from EBGBS to Max Sanders, Senior Planning Officer, Hertsmere Borough Council.
We encourage all members to comment as individuals in your own words and using you own experience of the area.
The deadline has passed for responding to Hertsmere Planning Department regarding the planning application submitted by Elstree Green Limited seeking permission for the construction and operation for 35 years for a grid-connected solar photovoltaic farm with battery storage and other ancillary infrastructure on land north of Butterfly Lane and surrounding Hilfield Farm, and west of Hilfield Lane.
Read here what local Politicians have said about the Solar Plant:
Click here for response by Oliver Dowden MP
Extract "Nonetheless, very legitimate concerns have been raised with me, in particular about the size and scope of what is proposed and the impact it could have on our green open spaces. It is therefore very important that the Council properly consider the impact that this application would have on our ability to maintain the distinct and rural character of the countryside around Bushey and Radlett."
Response by Cllr Caroline Clapper on Facebook on 21st February 2021
STATEMENT RE: SOLAR PLANT PLANNING APPLICATION
Whilst I have been in frequent communications with many residents about this matter from the outset, I have started to see a number of requests from others for me to make my thoughts public on this application, which I am more than happy to do.
As County Councillor for Watling Division (Radlett, Aldenham & Elstree), and also as a Hertsmere Borough Councillor, I am elected to represent all residents, and to assist in protecting the area from potential threats, including those to our beloved green belt.
I have always been entirely supportive of the Green Agenda and indeed voted for our ‘Climate Emergency’ policy at Hertsmere Borough Council. However, I could not be supportive of this Solar Plant application, because having examined this proposal closely, I do not believe it is Green, nor does it fulfil our Green Agenda. The removal of this much of our Green Belt in Aldenham - whether as a temporary measure or not - is something I would never support.
Having studied the implications of this particular proposal carefully, there are countless valid planning reasons why this application should be refused, and the ‘very special circumstances’ that the applicant has put forward do not outweigh the harm and impact this would have to our Green Belt, in my considered view.
Since the very start I have been working closely with the founders of the campaign to refuse this application, as well as other residents groups, local schools and surrounding villages, to assist in joining up the message and bringing all stakeholders together to find the appropriate expertise and advice, and to try and raise awareness with clear and succinct messaging. I have been lending my support wherever possible to assist with this campaign.
When this application ultimately comes to Committee (which I will not be sitting on), I shall be strongly advocating for residents against this proposal and until that point, every resident can be assured that I will continue to do everything I can to support and assist the refusal campaign.
See below for the EBGBS response.
January 2021 : Solar Panel Development
130-hectare solar farm near Aldenham
Plans for the development have been published.
Click here for details and route to commenting on this project.
The summary is:
Case no: 21/0050/FULE
Address: Land North Of Butterfly Lane, Land Surrounding Hilfield Farm And Land West Of Hilfield Lane Aldenham
Proposal: Installation of renewable led energy generating station comprising ground-mounted photovoltaic solar arrays and battery-based electricity storage containers together with substation, inverter/transformer stations, site accesses, internal access tracks, security measures, access gates, other ancillary infrastructure, landscaping and biodiversity enhancements.
Status: Awaiting decision
EBGBS, have responded on behalf of the society.
Click here to read the letter from EBGBS to Max Sanders, Senior Planning Officer, Hertsmere Borough Council.
We encourage all members to comment as individuals in your own words and using you own experience of the area.