A new solar farm could be built on a farm in a small Somerset village if new proposals are approved.

Greentech Ltd. has submitted an initial inquiry (known as a screening opinion) over the prospect of building a solar farm at Mahe Farm on Dunsham Lane in Wayford, around three miles south-west of Crewkerne, writes Local Democracy Reporter Daniel Mumby.

The company, which is based in Hamburg in Germany, believes that the site is sufficiently enclosed to prevent any adverse impact on the character of the village or the wider rural area.

South Somerset District Council will make a ruling on the proposals before Christmas – with more detailed plans expected to come forward in the spring of 2023.

The site lies at the eastern edge of the village, opposite the cemetery and a short distance from the grade two listed St Michaels and All Angels Church.

The solar array will be accessed from Dunsham Lane, and will stretch along much of the length of Chard Lane before stopping short of the junction with Staker’s Cross Lane.

Emma Bathgate, senior consultant at ITP Energised (representing the applicant), said the site would be well-screened through the retention of existing hedgerows to prevent any adverse impact on the character of the village or the Dorset area of outstanding natural beauty.

She said: “The proposed development would introduce new infrastructure (solar panels) into enclosed farmland currently utilised for agricultural purposes.

“It is not anticipated that the proposed development would have any significant direct effects on cultural heritage receptors in the area.

“The distance from the site and the intervening vegetation means that there would be little direct visual connectivity between the designated heritage assets and the site.

“Solar photovoltaic projects are minimally intrusive, temporary, and the land will be restored to its original condition upon decommissioning, suitable to be used for agricultural purposes such as sheep grazing.”

There are currently three other solar farms operating in the area between Crewkerne and Chard – two separate sites at Lower Coombe Farm, and the Goldenhaye site on the A30 within the Cricket St Thomas Estate.

The council is expected to make a ruling on the matter before the end of the year.