Oliver Dowden comments on solar farm plan near Elstree

The Hertsmere MP says "a number of residents" have approached him about the Hilfield Solar Farm proposal which would stretch across 20 fields between Elstree and Radlett.

The scheme by Enso Energy has received 466 objections on Hertsmere Borough Council's planning portal, along with 63 comments of support, while a campaign group 'Save Our Green Belt. Stop the Solar Farm' has also been launched.

Sharon Woolf, who is leading the campaign group, has previously told the Times some of the biggest concerns about the solar farm are the size of it and the "lasting damage" it would have on the landscape.

Read more: Campaigners step up efforts to oppose solar farm

Sharon Woolf pictured in Radlett with an anti-solar farm banner. Credit: Lynn Margolis Photography

Mr Dowden acknowledged the size of the scheme in a statement published on his website which was a wider response to those who have been in touch with him about the plans.

He said: "As many of you know, Members of Parliament are unable to get involved in individual planning applications as these decisions are taken by the relevant planning authority, in this case, Hertsmere Borough Council.

"However, defending the countryside and protecting our environment and green open spaces continues to be one of my greatest priorities.

"In common with other planning applications, I always ensure residents voices are heard. I have therefore met with residents on both sides regarding this proposal and have ensured their concerns are shared with the council. Likewise, I know that our excellent local councillors, who will make the decision, are fully engaged."

Oliver Dowden, Member of Parliament for Hertsmere

Mr Dowden continued: "The council declared a climate emergency in 2020 and reducing our emissions requires difficult decisions to be taken at all levels of government.

"Hertsmere currently generates 5.4 per cent of its energy requirements from renewable sources, and this project could increase this to 20 per cent - enough to power Borehamwood. I have also been briefed that new planting and ecological connectivity on the proposed site would achieve a 40 per cent net gain for biodiversity.

"Nonetheless, very legitimate concerns have been raised with me, in particular about the size and scope of what is proposed and the impact it could have on our green open spaces."

The rough area of where the solar farm is planned. It is the majority of the fields shaded a grey/brown colour. Credit: Google

He added: "It is therefore very important that the council properly consider the impact that this application would have on our ability to maintain the distinct and rural character of the countryside around Bushey and Radlett.

"We all need to get involved in important debates like this about how we best preserve our landscape and environment for future generations. I would therefore urge Radlett and Bushey residents to look at the plans and share their views with the council."

Campaigners in Radlett. Credit: Lynn Margolis Photography

Applicants Elstree Green Limited, a wholly owned subsidiary of Enso Green Holdings Ltd, says the proposed solar farm and battery storage facility would have the capacity to provide electricity for around 15,600 family homes, although they would not necessarily be in Hertsmere.

Planning documents state the solar farm would be dismantled after 35 years but the Elstree & Borehamwood Green Society wrote in their consultation response they fear the loss of land might be "permanent".

The planning application can be found here.