Plans For Major Romney and Rother Solar Farm Undergoing Public Consultation

Plans for a major solar farm capable of powering more than 140,000 homes are attracting attention as a public consultation gets underway.

The proposed South Brooks Solar Farm would be built across sites on Romney Marsh and neighbouring areas of Sussex, including parts of Rother. The development, being brought forward by EDF and PS Renewables, would generate up to 500 megawatts of electricity.

Due to its scale, the project is classed as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project, meaning it will be examined by the Planning Inspectorate before a final decision is made by the Secretary of State.

Residents and stakeholders have until July 9 to have their say as part of the statutory consultation process.

Developers say changes have already been made following earlier feedback, including reducing the developed area by 20 per cent and increasing land allocated for ecology and landscaping.

Rye and Eastern Rother and Winchelsea councillor Dan Bradley has welcomed the move towards renewable energy and improved energy security but says concerns remain about the potential impact on the Marsh’s landscape, farmland, wildlife, drainage and flood risk.

He has urged residents to engage with the consultation process and ensure any future development carefully balances environmental benefits with the protection of local communities and the surrounding countryside.