Kent, Kinsale Approve Large Solar Farms Despite Local Opposition

Planning permission has been granted for several large-scale solar farms across different regions, despite significant local opposition concerned about environmental, agricultural, and community impacts. In Cork, a 6 MW solar farm near Kinsale received approval amid ecological and flooding concerns, while a much larger 100 MW project was refused due to insufficient archaeological investigations. In Kent, the 160-acre Pitstock Solar farm, with a 41 MW capacity, was approved despite objections highlighting the loss of prime farmland and threats to food security, with supporters emphasizing its economic benefits and contribution to renewable energy targets. Local councils and residents have voiced concerns about the impact on farmland, local heritage, and traffic, but planning authorities have generally ruled in favor of the developments, citing the importance of renewable energy and legal considerations. Meanwhile, in Yarmouth, zoning amendments have been approved to explicitly allow smaller solar installations while restricting larger projects, aiming to balance renewable energy adoption with community and environmental priorities. These developments reflect ongoing tensions between advancing renewable energy infrastructure and preserving agricultural land and local environments.