The Old Rectory, Swathwick Lane, Wingerworth, Chesterfield, Derbyshire, S42 6QW

change of use of field to sustainable energy, construction of barn and retention of concrete hardstanding

Authority: North East Derbyshire District Council
Appeal type: minor · Planning Appeal
Procedure: Written Representations
Development: utilities-energy · Change of use
Inspector: Cooper P

Main issues, as the Inspector framed them

The effect of the proposed development on the character and appearance of the countryside from the proposal and its domestic encroachment into the countryside

What decided it

The harm to character and appearance of the countryside caused by the siting of the solar array, barn and hardstanding outside the settlement boundary, which was not outweighed by the modest renewable energy benefits of the scheme.

Framework references: 163

Plan policies cited: SS1, SS9, SDC3, SDC10, SDC12, W2, W15

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- Heritage. Listed buildings by grade and distance, conservation areas, scheduled monuments, registered parks and gardens, heritage at risk.
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- Flooding. Flood zones 2 and 3, surface water, and both again with climate change.
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