FAQs

Q.  What is the application for?

A.  The erection of 7,800 panels, 7ft high solar panels and the associated buildings to be sited on land which is currently open fields. This will be adjacent to the recreation ground and surrounded by an 8ft high steel security fence.

Q.  We are putting our house up for sale.  Could the development impact on the asking price of our house?

A. A number of local estate agents believe that the value of property, especially on houses near to the development, will be affected.

Q.  Would any jobs be created for the people living in Stoke Golding?    

A.  No

Q.  Would any of the electricity be used to power houses in Stoke Golding?  If so, would this be free?

A.  Any power generated would feed into the National Grid and would not be free or at a reduced rate to residents.

Q.  Are there any benefits at all to the residents of Stoke Golding?

A.  None.  However, if the plan was to be approved, Freetricity have indicated that they may provide a small number of footballs, install solar panels on the Village Hall roof, plant an oak tree and would tarmac an area close to the development.

Q.  I heard that the application had been approved, what has changed?

A.  The Planning Committee reviewed the application on 19^th February.  After lengthy debate the vote was in deadlock and the Chairman of the Committee used his casting vote in favour of the application.  However, before the final approval was given it become clear that the council had not followed the correct consultation process and hence they were forced to reconsult.

Q.  If the vote was a close call why do you believe the decision may be different at the next planning application meeting? 

A.  We think some councillors had not fully understood all the objections and we would like to work with them to put the case forward. The views of the majority of villagers had not been taken into consideration.  On the night, our local representative, Cllr. Reg Ward ABSTAINED from the vote.

Q. So what can I do?

Everybody has a democratic right to speak out.  So, whether you are FOR or AGAINST the application we urge you to make your comments to the Council Planning Office and speak to Cllr. Reg Ward.