A proposal for a significant solar farm near Bodelwyddan and St George, Abergele, includes plans for both renewable energy generation and a battery storage system. The site, near the Denbighshire and Conwy County boundaries, is located within 2km of five Scheduled Monuments, blending sustainable energy innovation with historical preservation.
Solar Farm Near Historical Monuments in Wales
A major solar farm of national significance is planned for an area near Bodelwyddan and St George, Abergele. The project, now submitted for an environmental impact assessment, was announced by the Welsh Government and aims to generate renewable electricity while incorporating a battery energy storage system (BESS).
The proposed site for the solar panels near Abergele spans land near the Denbighshire and Conwy County Council boundaries, placing it in a location rich with history.
Crucially, the area is within a 2km radius of five scheduled monuments: St George’s Well, the First World War Practice Trenches at Bodelwyddan Park, Tyddyn Bleiddyn Burial Chamber, Bedd-y-Cawr Hillfort, and The Mount. This proximity presents a unique blend of historical significance and modern renewable energy potential.
The solar farm will feature solar arrays, inverters, transformers, cabling, substations, and the access tracks essential for generating and storing renewable energy. The project also includes comprehensive plans for landscaping, ecological enhancements, and other supporting infrastructure.
Set on moderate-quality agricultural land (grade 3b) with some patches of good-quality land (3a), the project will support Wales’ energy goals. It is also designed to complement existing renewable energy projects in the area, including other solar farms and a windfarm substation planned for St Asaph.
Environmental Impact Assessment
As part of the environmental impact assessment scoping process, the Welsh Government has formally notified Denbighshire County Council. Both Denbighshire and Conwy County Councils are now consulting on the proposal, with a January 31 deadline to provide feedback on the scoping report.
The site’s proximity to historical landmarks has raised questions about the project’s potential impact. St George’s Well lies just 330 meters south of the proposed area, while the First World War Practice Trenches are 450 meters to the north, meaning developers will need to ensure the monuments are preserved throughout construction and operation.
Abergele councillor Paul Luckock has expressed his support for the project, highlighting the importance of balancing local concerns with the need for renewable energy. “My attitude to all of these environmental schemes is that they are positive,” he stated.
Luckock emphasized the broader benefits of such projects. “In principle, I’m supportive of these developments,” he said. “Not just from the environmental point of view but for development in general, we need to generate the economy locally, and if people are going to invest, then I’d welcome it.”
Renewable Energy in Wales
Wales has long been at the forefront of renewable energy, with numerous solar farms, wind farms, and other projects helping to reduce the country’s carbon footprint. This proposed solar farm near Bodelwyddan represents another significant step toward achieving the nation’s renewable energy targets.
Combining solar photovoltaic systems with battery energy storage helps create a more stable energy supply, even during periods of low sunlight. The project aligns with global trends where solar farms play a critical role in sustainable power generation.
The planned solar farm near Bodelwyddan and St George is a significant development for Wales, combining renewable energy generation with economic and environmental benefits. While the project has received initial support from local leaders, it must still address key concerns about historical preservation and land use.
As Wales continues to embrace renewable energy, projects like this solar farm highlight the critical balance between progress and preservation. Ultimately, feedback from local councils and stakeholders will shape the future of this ambitious initiative.