Plans to build a new solar farm between Darlington and Stockton will be examined by planning officials at a public hearing. 

The Government Planning Inspectorate will consider the Byers Gill Solar Farm application at two meetings on Tuesday and Wednesday next week. 

Stretching from Brafferton, off the A167 near Darlington, to the north east of Bishopton, the Byers Gill Solar Farm is set to generate energy for around 70,000 homes.

However, residents opposing the proposal said it would devastate local communities and farmland. 

Hundreds of residents have backed a community campaign since 2022, as other solar farms have been approved nearby. 

The Byers Gill application by developer RWE will be decided by the Government Planning Inspectorate due to its proposed size. 

Next week’s meetings will start the examination phase of the application process and will see government officials question the proposed development. Residents, local councils, and environmental groups will also be present. 

Planning issues to be discussed include the principle of the proposed development; historic environment; traffic and transport; water environment and flood risk; and landscape and visual impact. 

A preliminary pre-examination hearing was held in July to kick-start the review process. Bishopton resident Norman Mullaney said residents have warned of becoming prisoners in the village if the solar farm is approved.  “There is a large amount of anxiety and anguish about the impact of the poorly-located solar farm,” he said. 

“The size and location of the development is a major concern. It’s been dropped in. There’s a significant, major impact on residents.”

The six areas outlined for the solar panels are Brafferton, Hauxley Farm, Byers Gill Wood, Great Stainton, and two near Bishopton. The project will have a lifespan of 40 years, after which the land will be returned to its former state, said RWE.

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Michael Baker, project manager for Byers Gill Solar, said it has listened to the concerns and altered the plans. 

He said: “We have listened to views and opinions and have made changes to the development by reducing panel areas, increasing mitigation measures such as planting to screen the solar panels, and recently removing proposals for the cable route to use the High Street running through Bishopton village.

“We hope those with an interest continue to participate in the examination process. If we receive development consent, Byers Gill will make a significant contribution to the UK’s national need to achieve net zero carbon emissions by 2050.”