Enhancing the Development of Botley West Solar Farm

Challenge

Botley West Solar Farm is classed as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP).  Project approval will be determined by the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, following examination and recommendations by the Planning Inspectorate, and engagement and consultation with the host authorities, local stakeholders, communities, and statutory bodies.

The location of the site, much of which is on land owned by Blenheim Estate, and the impact upon the Oxford Green Belt, present significant complexities for the design and planning phases of the project. The design work has progressed during 2023, following an initial informal round of consultation at the end of 2022.

Solution

We guided PVDP in the design process, helping to integrate the project into the existing landscape, protecting and enhancing established assets, including providing benefits for ecology, public access, community use, water management, and landscape character.

We provided an assessment and analysis of the potential benefits and impacts of the proposals on the local environment, community, and economy. Our teams also provided guidance on the scheme design and recommendations for landscape and habitat management, surface water and flood risk, and community benefits. The scheme will support local food-growing groups, improved footpaths, and cycle networks, and the potential for sheep grazing and will secure significant biodiversity net gain – expected to be over 80%.