The Tenant Farmers' Association (TFA) is 'taking a stand' to safeguard tenanted farmland in North Yorkshire against a proposed large-scale solar energy development.

The proposal could have a significant impact on the livelihood of the Sturdy family, who have been farming land off Great Sike Road in Old Malton since the 1970s.

TFA chief executive George Dunn travelled to the area to participate in the seven-day planning appeal, which began last week.

The appeal follows North Yorkshire Council's refusal to grant planning permission for Harmony Energy's solar development.

The land in question is owned by the Fitzwilliam Trust Corporation but leased to tenant farmers Rob and Emma Sturdy.

(Image: Contributor)

The Sturdys fear that if the development goes ahead, it will reduce their tenanted holding by almost half, approximately 52 hectares.

However, Harmony Energy argues that increasing renewable energy production, such as through solar projects, is key to the government’s energy policy.

While there have been 500 objections to the development, the company claims it has taken local feedback into account and reduced the size of the proposed solar farm.

Commenting on the situation, the TFA reiterated its stance on protecting tenanted farmland and emphasised that the ongoing planning appeal is 'critical' to its future.

The TFA stated: “We have advocated for the impact on the personal circumstances of the family, arguing that the planning inspector should recommend refusing the solar application,

"As we navigate the complex balance between renewable energy needs and preserving tenanted farmland, the TFA remains committed to supporting its members and ensuring the sustainability of the tenanted sector of agriculture."

The inspector’s recommendation will be forwarded to the secretary of state for housing, Angela Rayner, for a final decision.