Planning Inspectorate Approves Craghead Solar Farm After Initial Rejection
The Planning Inspectorate has overturned a previous decision by the Durham County Council to reject a proposed 58-hectare solar farm in Craghead. The initial rejection was based on concerns that the solar farm would significantly deteriorate the recreational use of the land and harm the character and appearance of the countryside. Objectors, including local equestrian businesses, argued that the solar farm would negatively impact the welfare of horses and reduce the usability of grazing land. Despite these concerns, the Planning Inspectorate concluded that the benefits of renewable energy production outweighed the potential harms. The solar farm, developed by Ampyr Solar Europe, is expected to generate enough electricity to power over 12,800 homes. 
