A SERIES of photographs show the strength of feeling as residents of Bramley and Silchester gathered to protest against plans for a solar farm the size of more than 100 football pitches.

If approved, the development near Bramley would power 17,000 homes and save 8,000 cars worth of carbon dioxide.

The site in Minchens Lane, known as Bramley Firth, is more than 81 hectares in size and spans six fields to the north of the village. It has been recommended for planning approval by bprough council planners.

READ MORE: Villagers protest against solar farm the size of more than 100 football pitches proposed for countryside

On Saturday (April 16), protestors marched along the much-used Brenda Parker Way, a footpath neighbouring the earmarked land, shouting "fields for food" and "save our heritage", airing their opposition to the size of the scheme.

Aardvard EM Limited, which submitted plans to Basingstoke and Deane Borough Council in December 2020, on behalf of applicants Bramley Solar Ltd, said the solar farm would provide a “reliable source of urgently needed low carbon and renewable energy”.

More than 650 people have objected to the plans, while 21 people have offered their support.

The council is due to make a decision on the application on Wednesday (April 20).

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