You are probably aware that a planning application for a solar farm in Ridley, next to New Ash Green, is to be sent later this year by Evolution Power Limited to Sevenoaks District Council. Many residents attended the exhibition in September and will have commented direct to the company.

The intended site for the solar farm is on the eastern side of Hartley Bottom Road, opposite Redhill Wood, then south to Berry’s Maple and extending eastwards onto the top of the hills towards Ridley. A cable to connect the site to the National Grid would run through New Ash Green along Redhill Road to West Yoke and a switching station in a field behind Eaglesfield Equestrian Centre. More details are on the company’s website at www.newashgreensolar.co.uk

New Ash Green Village Association intends to meet Evolution Power to find out exactly how the solar farm will affect New Ash Green residents and what benefits it might bring to the village. The VA is aware that people hold a range of views about solar power in general and this proposal in particular. It is important to find out how many residents support the current plans for the Evolution Power project or do not want to see it implemented at any cost. We realise that, in principle, the Government is in favour of solar power projects, even in the Green Belt, so we also need to know how the VA should aim to negotiate community benefits for the 40-year life of the solar farm if planning permission is granted.

A survey has been prepared and is available online at https://tinyurl.com/ztn6hxj5 Please  complete the questionnaire as soon as possible, and ideally by the 13th October.

2024 OCTOBER Sophie Medhurst-02

Are you interested in helping to support our natural habitats in New Ash Green, in promoting conservation and enhancing the green spaces that make NAG special?

The Woodlands Group has been dedicated over the past 20 years to support and enhance our natural amenities across New Ash Green, such as the NAG Orchard and Meadow, helping to manage surrounding woodland and promoting wildflower verges.

We are a small, friendly group of volunteers who meet every third Saturday of the month.  Tasks are varied, from pruning apple trees and clearing scrub, to building dead hedges and enhancing the environment for both our residents and wildlife.  Our volunteers are also varied in age and abilities, there really are jobs for anyone who wants to help.

If you are interested in helping or are simply curious about our natural habitats in and around New Ash Green, why not come down to the Orchard on the 3^rd Saturday of the month. We start at 10 am and finish at 1pm with a break for coffee and a chat around 11:30. All equipment and guidance are provided, there’s usually a cup of tea or coffee as well.

You can find us on Facebook @ Woodlands Group – Wild About New Ash Green, on our website www.wildaboutnag.com, or you can contact us via wildaboutnag@gmail.com.