The Scheme
Where the scheme is, why this site was chosen, and what we are proposing to build.
Site and landscape
The proposed site covers around 38 hectares (94 acres) of farmland north of Wickford, and is made up of 10 fields bounded by existing hedgerows and woodland.
Site location plan view. Layout plan available in Downloads.
Site selection
The site was selected for its suitability to accommodate a solar farm while retaining most of the land for agricultural use. The land is classified as Grade 3B, indicating lower agricultural value, and has no significant planning or environmental constraints.
In 2022, consultation with UK Power Networks (UKPN) confirmed available grid capacity for a solar farm, enabling electricity distribution to local homes and businesses.
Protecting views and hedgerows
Existing hedgerows and trees would be kept and strengthened with new planting, to screen views from nearby roads, footpaths and homes. A landscape and visual assessment is underway, and its findings will shape the final layout.
Proposed development
The scheme would see rows of ground mounted solar panels installed across a number of fields, together with a small substation and new planting.
Panels would face south, set in rows running east to west and fixed at an angle of around 20 degrees. Each row would sit on a simple metal frame pushed into the ground, so no concrete foundations are needed for the arrays.
The electricity generated would connect into the local network via the overhead line which crosses the site.
Access and construction
Construction is expected to take around 6-9 months, with working hours agreed with the council. Vehicle access for the construction will likely be from Brock Hill.
Lifespan and decommissioning
The solar farm would operate for around 40 years. At the end of its life, all equipment would be removed and the land returned to agricultural use.
Chelmsford’s Climate Action Strategy
Our project is in line with direction given by Chelmsford Council, which declared a climate emergency in 2019 and set a target to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2030.
Chelmsford’s Climate Action Strategy calls for an increase in the efficiency of renewable energy generation technology, including solar farms, as a potential pathway for carbon reduction.
Chelmsford City Council – Climate emergency declaration and action plan
Tell us what you think
Your comments will be considered before a planning application is submitted.