We need more solar energy to increase the UK’s electricity supply, reduce reliance on fossil fuels and strengthen energy security. Alongside technologies such as wind, it helps create a more balanced and resilient energy system.

The UK is aiming to deliver around 45 - 47GW of renewable energy generated by solar by 2030 as part of its net zero ambitions. At a local level, Cheshire East Council has set a target to deliver 447MW of large-scale solar by 2030 and become carbon neutral by 2045.

The scheme would provide around £8,000 per year for local projects, with the community helping to decide how it is used to support local priorities. Visit the Community Benefit Fund section of this website to learn more.

It would also improve habitats on the site, creating more space for wildlife, and keep Swains Walk open and maintained for people to continue using.

Solar panels do not make noise. Some equipment can produce a low level of sound, which will be assessed as part of the planning application.

Construction activity will involve vehicle movements, including deliveries and HGVs.

Access will be taken from Chester Road, with most vehicles travelling via the M6 and A556. These are established strategic routes already used by high volumes of traffic, including HGVs, so they are well suited to accommodate construction traffic.

Temporary traffic management may be required on Tabley Road and Manchester Road to install underground cabling. These works will be carefully managed, with local residents kept informed in advance of any activity, including details of timings and any expected disruption.

Once operational, traffic to the site will be minimal, with only occasional visits for maintenance.

No. Swains Walk will remain open during construction and operation, so people can continue to use it as they do today.

No. Solar farms are not permanent development. At the end of the project’s lifetime (40 years), the land can be restored and returned to agricultural use.

If approved, construction is expected to start in late 2027 or early 2028. The site would be operational by around 2029.

No. The electricity is fed into the national grid, not directly to homes. Increasing renewable energy supply can help reduce reliance on more expensive fuels over time.

Solar panels require materials and energy to produce. However, once installed, they generate electricity without emissions and typically offset their carbon footprint within a few years.

Yes. Many of the main materials, including glass and aluminium, can be recycled at the end of their life.

A detailed glint and glare assessment will be carried out as part of the planning application.

There are no listed buildings within the site.

There are some nearby heritage assets, including the Grade II listed Cemetery Chapel, Besom Hill Cottage, Rose Cottage and the Church of St Paul. These have been considered as part of the design, including landscaping to help ensure their setting is respected.