A REVISED scheme to develop a solar park in Shirenewton was differed by Monmouthshire councillors this week.

The scheme was not supported by councillors at a meeting held in County Hall, near Usk, earlier this month because they felt it would impact an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Since then the scheme at Rhewl Farm has been reduced from 33,264 solar panels to 31,779 covering 14.5 hectares.

The land is currently used for sheep and cattle pasture and is bordered by St Pierre’s Great Wood and the Wye Valley AONB.

Councillors were at a standstill on whether to approve the solar park with seven votes each to approve and against the application.

Officers recommend the plan is accepted on the condition money is paid to improve the community.

The AONB had previously rejected the application but was satisfied with the revised plans due to plants and hedge around the perimeter of the site adjacent to St Pierre’s Great Woods which would separate the views of the PV panels.

Cllr Graham Down, member for Shirenewton, said: “My main issue here is the response from AONB who have made such a dramatic u-turn on the scheme which needs some explanation. It has gone from being of significant impact to the best practice.

“There has been no meaningful consultation with the local community. We need to look at the cumulative impact of these schemes with the tragic decision to allow Llanvapley. We need to think about the impact all the solar farms are having in Monmouthshire.”

Cllr Ann Webb, member for St Arvans, proposed that Monmouthshire has a supplementary planning guidance for green energy policy which officers said was currently in the process of being produced.

Cllr Maureen Powell, member for Castle ward, Abergavenny,said: “The application has been amended and the AONB have withdrawn their objectives. The site isn’t going to be looked at by a lot of people.”

Council officers had recommended the park for approval saying that it would have ‘limited disturbance’ on the surrounding communities when construction takes place to build the farm, which is expected to last for 25 years.

Officers also recommended the plan is accepted on the condition money is provided to improve the area's infrastructure.

Councillors including Debby Blakebrough, member for Trellech United, had concerns and wanted better benefits to the community.