Craig Hoy MSP joined an East Lothian family to learn more of serious community concerns about a proposed solar farm which would encircle their home and the nearby village of Oldhamstocks.
During the visit Craig met with Joe Zawinski and his family where he was shown a life-sized replica of one of the 50,000 solar panels that would be installed at the 455 acre site.
Mr Hoy heard that a survey of local residents revealed that 90% were against the proposed solar power development and that residents were not informed that explorative surveys and assessments were being carried out. Residents say the first formal notification of the proposed Springfield solar farm was an information leaflet about the scoping report posted to residents.
Speaking after the meeting, Craig Hoy MSP said: “The proposed Springfield solar farm is very concerning both in its scale and impact on the community and environment. The scoping report fails to address a number of issues, including the proposed boundaries, and I hope that both East Lothian Council and the Energy Consent Unit of the Scottish Parliament will look very closely at the impact of this proposed renewable energy development.
“I agree with many of the residents of Oldhamstocks that the location of the development is entirely inappropriate. The community is not anti-renewables, but the proposed scale and site of the solar farm is a cause for genuine concern and comes alongside a number of planned energy projects in the immediate vicinity of the village”.
Local campaign group Save Our Rural East Lammermuir Landscape (SORELL) commissioned a survey that challenged several aspects of the original scoping report.
Mr Hoy explained: “Those concerned that a solar farm which looks set to be two thirds of the size of Dunbar should make representations to elected representatives.
“I am against the plans as they currently stand and intend to work closely with the community on this issue.”