A decision by Reform UK-led Durham County Council to reject plans for a 63-hectare solar farm and battery storage system in Haswell Plough has been overturned on appeal.
The Planning Inspectorate decided that the renewable energy benefits of the scheme outweighed its potential harm. The council had initially refused the plans last July following local opposition.
Resident Janice Ferguson, one of 25 original objectors, had previously stated that the farm would make her family feel like "prisoners in our own home." Easington's Labour MP Grahame Morris also opposed the proposal, citing concerns about landscape harm, resident impact, and potential noise issues.
The Planning Inspectorate acknowledged that the farm would cause "moderate harm" to the area's character and appearance. However, it noted that new tree and hedgerow planting would reduce the visual impact over time.
Hare Hill Solar Ltd, the developers, stated that the panels are expected to generate enough electricity for 17,600 homes annually.