The proposed solar farm will cover approximately 52 hectares of farmland near Appledore Road, west of Kenardington.
The site’s topography is hilly, rising gently from north to south. It is well screened by existing woodland, hedgerows and individual trees.
The site does not fall within any statutory landscape designations, such as National Parks or National Landscape Areas.
There are Public Rights of Way that link through the site and run close to it.
Initial research indicates that the site comprises Grade 3 (good to moderate) quality soils.
The site is primarily located within flood zone 1 (lowest risk), with a small area designated flood zone 2 and 3 (high probability of flooding).
The recent spikes in domestic energy prices affecting households across the country have encouraged the government to focus on a more independent UK energy strategy. Solar power is key to creating affordable and secure energy generation nationwide.
In addition, one of the government’s flagship goals is to make Britain a “clean energy superpower”; promising to lower energy bills, create jobs, and deliver secure, zero- carbon electricity by 2030, accelerating the move to net zero. As part of this mission, it has pledged to work with the private sector to triple the country’s solar capacity by the same date.
The Pond Wood solar farm will contribute to this by generating 35MW of clean energy: enough to power the equivalent of 10,605 homes.
Megawatts (MW) of clean energy generated
Standard domestic households powered annually
Approx. hectares of land protected by the solar farm
We plan to install a 35MW solar array across approximately 52 hectares of land, requiring minimal groundworks. The panels will be mounted on frames, with the top edge of the panels being about three metres high.
In addition to the solar panels, the site will also include:
Access will be from Appledore Road and the B2067.
The planning application will be determined by Ashford Borough Council.
Ecological surveys are underway, and measures will be put in place to protect and enhance local habitats. A minimum 10% biodiversity net gain will be delivered across the site.
Initial Feasibility studies
Technical surveys
Public engagement
Planning submission (this date is driven by the need to submit the planning application ahead of grid reform)
Construction