DEVELOPERS have announced plans to build a new solar farm in the Forest of Dean which could power more than half of all local homes.

National developer JBM Solar has launched a public consultation on proposals to build a new facility west of the B4215 near Highleadon, to be known as Laynes Wood Solar Farm.

It is estimated that the proposed site would generate enough energy to power the equivalent of approximately 21,700 properties annually.

JBM says the new solar farm would deliver "significant local and national benefits", including making a "considerable" contribution to the UK’s carbon and renewable energy targets of Net Zero by 2050 by replacing the equivalent of more than 1.2 million tonnes of CO2 from fossil fuel technologies.

The scheme includes plans to create 5.6 acres of wildflower meadow, an outdoor classroom, 72 new trees and up to 2.3km of new hedgerows to benefit local wildlife.

Beehives, bird boxes and insect hotels would also be installed to create a biodiversity net gain "in excess of the standard 10 per cent".

It is also expected that the development would generate around £7 million in business rates to Forest of Dean District Council during its lifetime.

Adam Withers, Laynes Wood Solar Farm Project Manager, said: "Our plans provide a fantastic opportunity to deliver much-needed clean and sustainable energy in the Forest of Dean.

"The need for renewable energy is more urgent than ever to address the climate emergency.

"Forest of Dean District Council has outlined a commendable target of achieving net zero by 2030 and we are pleased to bring forward a proposal that will help to support this ambition.

"We are proposing a scheme that respects the character and ecology of the local area and we want to hear local views on our proposals before we finalise our planning application.

"I’d encourage people to go online and view the proposals, where they’ll be able to complete our online feedback form."

Residents living near the site have been notified of the consultation period via a newsletter.

Members of the community are encouraged to find out more about the plans and provide feedback by October 29, with a virtual exhibition currently available to view online at www.layneswoodsolarfarm.consultationonline.co.uk.

The project team will also be available to meet residents in person at Tibberton & Taynton Village Hall on October 8, with appointments available to book via [email protected].

JBM is asking members of the public who have questions about the proposals to get in touch with the project team via the same email address.