🎉 Huge Victory for Bishton! 🎉
The small village of Bishton in south Newport is celebrating a big win against a global power! Villagers have successfully blocked massive plans from the energy giant RWE Renewables to develop a 300-acre solar farm on their doorstep.
This would-be solar farm, dubbed Craig y Perthi, threatened to engulf the picturesque village for 40 years. Village resident Jeff Hooper passionately noted, “This would have been awful had it happened. It would have decimated this village. We’re just so thankful that this battle has been won.”
Nestled on the edge of the Gwent Levels and home to a delicate ecosystem, Bishton’s 70 properties united to protect the area from development that could have harmed local biodiversity. The area is recognised as a site of special scientific interest (SSSI) and hosts endangered species like lapwings.
The Welsh Government, in a landmark decision, sided with the villagers, acknowledging the potential adverse effects on the land and the unique ecology. Rebecca Evans, Minister for Economy, Energy, and Planning, backed the inspector’s conclusion that the solar panel development wasn’t in harmony with the landscape or necessary for managing the SSSI.
Karen Fulker, another resident, expressed hope that their triumph sets a precedent for other rural communities. “It’s not just about Bishton. This case was about balancing renewable energy growth with environmental protection,” she said. “Thanks to the dedication of locals and backing from the Gwent Wildlife Trust, we’ve achieved something remarkable.”
While RWE has expressed disappointment and is contemplating future steps, Bishton’s victory showcases the power of community action and may guide future decisions across Wales. The battle for the Gwent Levels continues, but for now, Bishton stands proud and unchanged. 🌿✨
Let’s raise a glass to Bishton, proving that even the smallest community can make a huge impact! 🙌 #BishtonWins #CommunityPower #ProtectTheLevels