THE farmer behind the controversial plan to bring wind turbines to Milton Abbot is hoping West Devon planners will back a second project of his for another renewable energy source on his farm — this time with solar power.

Developers Lightsource Renewable Energy Ltd approached Peter Hocking at Tredown Farm to construct a solar photovoltaic farm, including panels, supporting structures, equipment housing and associated works with gates and fencing on a ten-acre site south east of Kelly Cross at Meadwell, Kelly.

Mr Hocking said: 'The solar farm will generate ten megawatts per annum and be enough to supply the needs of 270 houses. The electricity produced will go into the National Grid and be used locally.

'Where the solar farm is will be perfectly safe and sheep will still be able to graze in the area. Also, it will not be over hedge height so will not be visible.

'This particular field is quite isolated and is one that has been a bit of a problem for me anyway with damage by rabbits. It is ideal as it is south facing, there are no houses around it and we are the only one overlooking it from half a mile away.'

The planning application was validated by West Devon Borough Council on April 5 and a council decision on the solar farm is expected to be made by July.

Murex Energy applied to erect two wind turbines at Borough Cross and Ramsdown on land owned by Mr Hocking. Although a screening stage has been completed no new application has yet to be received by West Devon planners. However, Mr Hocking said a formal planning application was in the process of being put together.

The previous proposal was for two 330-kilowatt medium-sized turbines, with a hub height of 50 metres, a blade diameter of 34m to give a total height of 67m (220ft) which would generate 900 megawatts per annum to power enough electricity per year for 220 local homes.

However, objectors MABRAKE (Milton Abbot/Bradstone/Kelly Action Group) said it would be visibly detrimental to the area. The group is concerned with noise emissions and disputes claims of energy efficiency.