Plans to build a large-scale solar park spanning 114 hectares—equivalent to around 160 football pitches—near Chippenham will be reviewed by a planning inspector after Wiltshire Council denied consent.
In December 2023, Exagen Development Limited submitted an application for the 23MW Swallett Energy Park, located between Christian Malford and Dauntsey. The project envisions hundreds of solar panels mounted on metal frames, standing up to 3.1 meters tall and spaced 3 to 6 meters apart. An underground cable would connect the site’s new 33kV substation to the grid.
If approved, the solar park would generate enough renewable electricity to power approximately 9,400 homes, highlighting its potential contribution to sustainable energy goals.
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However, the proposal faced significant opposition. Over 50 objections were lodged, including from the Christian Malford Parish Council. Wiltshire Council’s strategic planning committee ultimately rejected the application in March 2024. Concerns centered on the delayed connection date to the national grid, projected not to occur until 2036 or later, and potential impacts on the local landscape and protected heritage sites.
Council members voiced frustration at the timeline. Cllr Ernie Clark questioned the logic of approving a project unlikely to be operational for seven to eight years, while committee chairman Cllr Howard Greenman expressed doubt about any tangible public benefits from a proposal with such uncertain delayed implementation.
Despite these refusals, Exagen has formally appealed, prompting a planning inquiry. The matter will be heard by Planning Inspector Ben Plenty during a one-day inquiry scheduled for Tuesday, December 16, 2024. The venue is yet to be confirmed.
This upcoming hearing represents a critical opportunity to reassess the potential benefits and drawbacks of the Swallett Energy Park, balancing renewable energy development against local environmental and heritage considerations.