About Stop Brailsford Solar
Why This Website Exists
This website has been created by local residents to provide information on the proposed Brailsford Solar Park development and help residents access planning documents, consultation information and guidance on submitting comments.
The Planning Application
The proposal covers approximately 119.8 hectares (296 acres) east of Brailsford and includes solar panels, battery storage, substations, access tracks and associated infrastructure with an operational lifespan of up to 40 years.
Have Your Say
Residents can review planning documents, submit comments to Derbyshire Dales District Council and access guidance on preparing effective representations before the consultation deadline.
SITE LOCATION & PUBLIC RIGHTS OF WAY
This map shows the location of the proposed solar development in relation to Brailsford Village, Wild Park Derbyshire, Brailsford Golf Course and existing Public Rights of Way.
Green dashed lines indicate existing Public Rights of Way shown on the Ordnance Survey map.
The Proposal
A planning application has been submitted for a solar photovoltaic (PV) development on approximately 119.8 hectares (296 acres) of land east of Brailsford.
The proposed development would:
• Cover an area equivalent to approximately 168 football pitches
• Generate up to 55MW of renewable electricity
• Include substations, switchgear compounds, access tracks and associated infrastructure
• Remain in operation for up to 40 years
Issues Raised During Consultation
Landscape & Visual Impact
Landscape & Visual Impact
Landscape & Visual Impact
The applicant's own assessments identify significant effects on the landscape and visual character of the area during construction and operation.
Agricultural Land
Landscape & Visual Impact
Landscape & Visual Impact
The proposed development covers approximately 119.8 hectares (296 acres) of agricultural land east of Brailsford.
Public Rights of Way
Landscape & Visual Impact
Public Rights of Way
Concerns have been raised regarding impacts on local footpaths, walking routes and recreational enjoyment of the countryside.
Trees & Ecology
Heritage & Archaeology
Public Rights of Way
Veteran trees and ecological features have been identified within and around the site, requiring protection and mitigation measures.
Heritage & Archaeology
Heritage & Archaeology
Heritage & Archaeology
Archaeological investigations have been undertaken due to the historic significance of the area and potential heritage assets.
Construction Impacts
Heritage & Archaeology
Heritage & Archaeology
The proposal would involve construction traffic, infrastructure installation and associated works across the development site.
Key Facts At A Glance
296 Acres
The proposed development would occupy approximately 119.8 hectares (296 acres) of land east of Brailsford. To put this into perspective, the site area is equivalent to around 168 football pitches, making it one of the largest proposed solar developments within the local area.
69% Best and Most Versatile Agricultural Land
Information presented during the planning process indicates that approximately 69% of the site is classified as Best and Most Versatile (BMV) agricultural land. National planning policy recognises such land as an important and finite resource due to its agricultural productivity.
Public Rights of Way
A number of existing public rights of way pass through or alongside the proposed development area. These routes form an important part of the local recreational network, providing opportunities for walking, exercise and connection with the natural environment. Research has consistently demonstrated the positive contribution that access to green space and countryside landscapes can make to physical health, mental wellbeing and overall quality of life. Questions have therefore been raised regarding the long-term experience of users within a substantially altered landscape setting.
Operational Lifespan of up to 40 Years
The proposal includes an operational lifespan of up to 40 years. During this period, solar infrastructure, security fencing, access tracks and associated equipment would remain in place before eventual decommissioning and site restoration.
Construction Traffic & Local Roads
The construction phase is expected to last approximately 12–18 months and would involve HGV movements, construction traffic and associated infrastructure works.
Residents have also undertaken informal traffic observations within the village. During a five-minute period at approximately 3pm on 12th June 2026, observers recorded 70 cars, 7 vans, 3 trucks and 3 motorcycles travelling through the area. A separate one-hour informal traffic observation undertaken on 13th June 2026 recorded approximately 1,200 vehicle movements.
Whilst these observations are not formal traffic surveys, they illustrate the existing level of activity on local roads and have led some residents to question the potential cumulative impact of additional construction traffic associated with the proposed development.
More Than Solar Panels
In addition to photovoltaic panels, the application includes a range of supporting infrastructure, including electrical substations, switchgear compounds, battery storage facilities, internal access tracks, security fencing, CCTV systems and grid connection equipment necessary for the operation of the development.
How To Write An Effective Objection
Helpful guidance for residents wishing to submit comments to Derbyshire Dales District Council.
Planning officers generally give greater weight to comments written in a resident's own words rather than copied text.
When preparing your response, consider:
✓ Landscape and visual impact
✓ Agricultural land use
✓ Public rights of way and recreation
✓ Ecology, wildlife and biodiversity
✓ Heritage and archaeology
✓ Construction traffic and local roads
✓ Flood risk and drainage
✓ How the proposal would affect you personally
The most effective representations are factual, relevant to planning matters and explain why the issue is important to you and your community.
Latest Campaign Updates
The latest information, community activity and campaign developments.
Consultation Period Ends
3rd July 2026
Derbyshire Dales District Council's current consultation period is scheduled to close on 3 July 2026. Residents are encouraged to submit comments by 30th June 2026 where possible to avoid last-minute issues and ensure representations are received before the consultation closes.
Website Resources Added
17th June 2026
The website now includes:
✓ Planning application links
✓ Comment submission guidance
✓ Frequently Asked Questions
✓ Key facts relating to the proposal
✓ Issues raised during consultation
✓ Objection Writing Guide
Further resources will be added as they become available.
Website Launch
17th June 2026
This website has been created by local residents to provide easy access to planning information, consultation documents and guidance on how to participate in the planning process. The aim is to help residents understand the proposal and make informed representations to Derbyshire Dales District Council.
Community Meeting Held
16th June 2026
A community meeting was held at Brailsford Golf Course on 16th June 2026 to discuss the proposed Brailsford Solar Park development and share information gathered from planning documents, consultation responses and local research.
Residents attended to discuss the proposal, review key planning considerations and identify additional information that may assist members of the community when preparing their own representations to Derbyshire Dales District Council.
BBC East Midlands Today attended and filmed the event, highlighting the level of local interest in the planning application.
Traffic Observations Shared
12th and 13th June 2026
Local residents have undertaken informal traffic observations within the village to better understand existing vehicle movements on local roads. The findings have been shared with the community and may assist residents when considering potential traffic impacts during the proposed construction period.
Community Leaflet Campaign Underway
9th June 2026
Volunteers have begun distributing information leaflets throughout Brailsford and neighbouring communities to raise awareness of the planning application and encourage residents to review the proposal and submit comments before the consultation deadline.
More Updates Coming Soon
This section will be updated as further information becomes available, including planning updates, community events, media coverage and consultation developments.
