COMMUNITIES living near 250 acres of land earmarked for a solar power farm are being invited to have their say on the proposed development.

Lightsource BP has announced its intention to use thousands of solar panels to provide clean energy for 13,000 homes with a new site at Thorpe Larches, between Stockton and Sedgefield, County Durham.

The energy develop has proposed land at Cowley House Farm could take on the solar farm, while being simultaneously used for agricultural purposes such as sheep grazing.

If installed, the solar farm's lifespan is expected to be around 35 years and all energy produced would be connected to the National Grid.

A community consultation on the proposals will be on Thursday, December 6, on a drop-in basis between 4.30pm and 7.30pm in Ceddesfeld Hall, Rectory Row, Sedgefield.

Penny Laurenson, head of planning at Lightsource BP, said: “Solar energy is not only clean and renewable, but it also generates locally-produced energy, which can support the UK to meet its environmental targets.

"We want to ensure that local communities in Sedgefield are informed of our plans to develop the project, and so, we look forward to meeting elected representatives, local businesses and residents at the community information event.

"In addition to gaining feedback from local communities, we also want to provide a forum to give residents the opportunity to ask any questions they may have about the project or solar energy in general.”

The project would also include a biodiversity management plan to "enhance the site as much as possible for local wildlife".

The fields proposed for the solar installation are currently screened by hedgerows and trees, offering a limited view of the farm.

For more information, contact the Lightsource BP project team by calling 0333 200 0755 or emailing info@lightsourcebp.com, quoting Cowley House Farm.