A SOLAR park with 33,264 solar panels in Shirenewton is facing the thumbs down from Monmouthshire councillors.

Councillors at a planning committee on October 7 refused the application on the grounds it would impact an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

However, the application will return to the planning committee next month as it is awaiting information on the quality of the land.

The park at Rhewl Farm is 1.5km south east of the village in Shirenewton and is currently used for sheep and cattle pasture.

The land is bordered by St Pierre’s Great Wood and the Wye Valley AONB.

Councillor Graham Down, member for Shirenewton, said: “The St Pierre Great Woods are a particularly beautiful location within the AONB.

“In springtime these woods are carpeted with bluebells.

“The AONB have said that it will significantly impact on the woods and detract visitors to the woods.

“To allow this application would be criminally negligible and disruptive to the Monmouthshire countryside.”

Cllr Ann Webb, member for St Arvans, said that Monmouthshire has a green energy policy which other councillors on the planning committee agreed with including Cllr David Dovey, member for St Kingsmark.

He added: “I don’t find the ‘we get used to it’ response to windmills and these panels acceptable. We might get used to them but what about the new people who would like to come here to see the place?

“I think they will have a different opinion.”

Council officers recommended the park for approval saying it would have ‘limited disturbance’ on surrounding communities when construction takes place.

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