Negative Visual Impact for Users of Footpaths 


There are eleven footpaths within Letheringham - four of which (F2, F6, F9, F11) the proposed Solar Power Station can be seen from.  It is believed that the development may also be seen from other Footpaths in surrounding villages.  Due to the undulations in the landscape, views from such are exacerbated.  There is concern that it would be impossible to conceal the Solar Power Station's panels/arrays, associated equipment, site entrance and 2m high perimeter fencing.  One path (F2) runs right through the site (between two very pretty country lanes), the apex of which enjoys far reaching views of the unspoilt countryside across to the Church.

These paths are well used by residents/walkers from the local area, as well as people/tourists from further afield.  Currently there are extensive, 360 degree uninterrupted views, of agricultural farmland and open countryside as far as the eye can see.  As well as views of the two ancient woods, which are encompassed within the site boundary.

The Solar Power Station would create visual and audible adverse impacts to the users of these footpaths and country lanes – the character of these “public rights of way” would be irreversibly devastated.  The solar arrays of approx 3m in height, battery containers (shipping like) of 3m in height, inverters of 3m in height, Distribution Network Operator substation of 3m in height, etc, etc, would tower above walkers, blocking these views.

It is stated that “an internal access track will be provided through the site to connect the field parcels within the site” [QC, page 12].  It is assumed that this relates to Letheringham, so is the intention to cross the Public Right of Way (F2)?  Letheringham's Footpaths and Church are the "only" public amenity features of the village; a significant number of concerns have been raised that the enjoyment of which is now under serious threat.  

Footpath 2 will be separated by a 2m high security fence on either side.  This would create an unpleasant prison like tunnel, degrading the amenity value of this distinctive landscape.  It is joyous however, to see such concerns being debated in Parliament: "Access to green space and exercise are good for wellbeing.  Imagine for a moment walking your dog not alongside a hedgerow, but between two 3.5 metre-high metal fences with CCTV cameras on them.  How many of us would prefer to run past miles of 4 metre-high solar panels than rolling British countryside?" [https://www.parallelparliament.co.uk/debate/2025-05-15/commons/commons-chamber/solar-farms, 15/05/25].