By now all residents in Blackhall Rocks, Crimdon, High Hesleden, Hesleden and Blackhall Colliery should have received a leaflet delivered direct to their door by two companies, Groupotec and REG Power Developments (REG) who are working on proposals to install a solar farm on land to the south of Fillpoke Lane between Crimdon and High Hesleden.
At this stage the companies are seeking the initial views of the community before they decide whether or not to submit a full planning application to Durham County Council as the local planning authority. As part of this process they are starting a 3-week consultation period with a public exhibition to be held in the Ship Inn in High Hesleden on Tuesday 18 February 2025 from 2pm until 8pm. The closing date for receipt of public comments is Tuesday 11 March 2025.
Please note that at this stage the companies promoting this project have not submitted a planning application. This is your opportunity to let them know what you think of their plans before they consider their next steps.
If you have any comments or queries you would like me to know about as your local councillor please get in touch direct at: rob.crute@durham.gov.uk If the company eventually decides to go ahead with a full planning application I'll make sure your comments are reflected at the planning committee stage.
If you haven't received a leaflet from the company you can find more details of their proposal on their website at: Project Benridge Farm
