Thanks to you, progress is possible. Help us keep the momentum going!
HELP SAVE YOUR LOCAL COUNTRYSIDE & RIDLEY COURT FARM
Evolution Power is proposing a massive solar and battery installation on land between New Ash Green and Ridley.If approved, this project would drastically alter the landscape, turning it into an industrial eyesore and diminishing the unique historical character of our countryside.
The proposed site for the solar farm is the cherished Ridley Court Farm, and if given approval, dairy cattle grazing will be lost! The footpaths and bridleways we cherish would be overshadowed by tens of thousands of 3.5-meter-high solar panels sprawling across fields that once provided a refuge for nature and walkers.
This industrial-scale installation would cover a staggering 235 acres - equivalent to 150 football pitches. This development offers little to our community; it primarily benefits a select few while harming our environment. While solar farms can be advantageous, this is not the right location, especially not in the Green Belt or in Ridley/New Ash Green.
THE GREEN BELT NEEDS YOUR SUPPORT
Beyond its visual impact, the construction and operation of the solar farm would introduce noise, vibrations, and light pollution, creating ongoing disturbances for nearby residents.
This development could lead to increased nuisance and anxiety, significantly impacting residents' quality of life. Traffic issues would also escalate due to the influx of construction vehicles heading to the site and the switching station.
Local flora and fauna would face serious threats, as this type of development would result in habitat loss and a decline in natural biodiversity. The proposed site includes several areas of ancient woodland that deserve protection. This entire region lies within the Green Belt, which should be safeguarded for future generations.
While solar energy is crucial for sustainability, this proposed development jeopardises our farmland, safety, and community integrity. The cumulative impact of this and potential future developments targeting other nearby farms could drastically alter the character of our environment and permanently change our landscape for generations to come.
AS RESIDENTS IT IS VITAL FOR US TO VOICE OUR CONCERNS AND PROTECT OUR COMMUNITY
Farmland currently used for food production could be converted for industrial development, impacting the food chain. Cover our car parks and rooftops not our farmland.
There will be no cheaper power available in the vicinity of the development.
House prices are likely to decrease, you will not be compensated.
The project will not create jobs for the local community.
Once decommissioned, the land currently classified as Green Belt may be reclassified as brownfield. The claim of 40 years being "temporary" is misleading.
This project only serves to benefit Evolution Power and the landowner rather than local residents and countryside users.
The habitats of bats, owls, buzzards, and badgers (to name a few) will be permanently affected.
: More suitable sites for this type of development exist, such as brownfield sites, car parks, and rooftops in Kent.
Pollution from panel manufacturing, construction, and decommissioning poses serious environmental risks. Panels are produced in the Far East, where human rights violations are widespread.
The potential for battery fire hazards and the limited recycling options for solar panel materials raise concerns about how green this venture will be.
Photovoltaic (PV) is not as effective as wind turbine power generation or other green energy.
THIS PROJECT IS DRIVEN ONLY BY A DESIRE FOR FINANCIAL PROFIT
There are many ways you may be able to help. Donations to fund the professional engagements to fight the solar farm are our most pressing need, but we also need volunteers to help us raise awareness, and to undertake information gathering activities.
If you have time or specific skills and would like to help, please contact us and let us know .
