05-06-2025
Villagers prepare to protest against plans for solar power plant
Villagers are planning a protest against plans for a solar power plant in rural Wiltshire.
The protest comes as part of a community walk planned in Coleshill, organised by the parish council, as a way to 'say no to Old Hayes Solar Farm'.
The walk will start from Coleshill Green by the church at 10am on Sunday, June 8, and highlights the dangers of utility solar development such as the loss of food-producing farmland, cherished footpaths, and bridleways.
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The walk will cut across King's Hill over the footpath to the boundary of Worsall Farm and back to the village, partly through Snowswick Lane.
Emails can be directed to saynotooldhayes@ and further information can be found on
The website says: "We need Green Energy.
"The Focus Group believes there would be many undesirable impacts resulting from this development.
"But we also need Green Spaces.
"The Group also believes that although green energy is needed, solar panels are better sited on roofs, and solar farms on land such as brownfield, landfill or areas zoned for industrial use.
"Our mission is to raise awareness regarding the adverse impacts of such developments, including the transformation of our scenic valley into an industrial landscape, the loss of agricultural land, the loss of biodiversity potential and increased traffic hazards for local communities.
"We are committed to ensuring that risks associated with construction do not arise.
"Together, we strive to ensure that the beauty and heritage of Coleshill are preserved for current and future generations, promoting sustainable practices that align with community values and environmental integrity."
The proposal in question is for a 71-hectare solar power plant comprising of 93,000 panels, alongside BESS storage in the valley beside the River Cole, just off Snowsick Lane.
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Coleshill, a National Trust village to the south of Faringdon, will be affected by this development in a 'spectacular low-lying landscape' that is 'overlooked from multiple high viewpoints.'
As the land is frequently flooded, special precautions such as raising the panels and storage units will be taken, which has led to further concerns about an increased risk of flooding, visual impact, and potential increase in crime, as stated on the Coleshill Solar Plan website.
Plans for the site will have a cumulative effect due to its proximity to the Lynt Solar Farm in Inglesham.
