A proposed 840-megawatt solar energy project in Oxfordshire, backed by Photovolt Development Partners (PVDP), is undergoing a final round of public hearings this week as part of the UK Government’s Development Consent Order (DCO) examination process.
The Botley West Solar Farm is being reviewed by the Planning Inspectorate (PINS), which launched its examination in May following several years of environmental assessment and community engagement. The hearings, led by an Examining Authority appointed by PINS, provide a forum for the developer, local authorities, statutory consultees, and members of the public to address key issues relating to the project.
“These are the final weeks of the examination phase, bringing to an end several years of productive, in-depth consultation with our neighbours in west Oxfordshire, alongside numerous expert bodies,” said Mark Owen-Lloyd, director at Photovolt Development Partners. “We are confident that the inspectors will find that we have submitted a robust case for why this project is needed, and the clean, reliable, lower-cost energy it will provide.”
According to the developer, the £800 million project would deliver a significant renewable energy capacity, supporting local businesses and contributing to national decarbonisation goals.
In addition to energy generation, PVDP says the scheme includes environmental and community benefits, including a 70% net gain in biodiversity, new and restored pedestrian and cycle routes, and a community benefit fund aimed at supporting initiatives in areas near the site.
The Botley West project is classed as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP), requiring consent through the DCO process before construction can begin. A recommendation from PINS will be submitted to the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero following the close of the examination.
