PROPOSALS to build a solar farm at Verwood Manor Farm will go before the public on Monday.

Residents are invited to view the plans, provide feedback and meet the developers at the event, which will take place at The Hub in Brock Way from 4pm until 9pm. The proposed development, by Wiltshire-based Solstice Renewables, is for a 22 megawatt solar park that would generate enough renewable electricity to power the equivalent of 5,500 average homes.

Company director Giovanni Maruca said: “Verwood Manor Farm is a great site for a solar park as it is well screened from the local area, and the land where the panels will be is currently of a low agricultural value.

“Our proposals will enable it to continue to be used for agriculture, with sheep grazing in winter, and a programme of biodiversity enhancement will create a wildlife haven in spring and summer for bees, birds and butterflies.”

The site is approximately 500 metres south of Verwood, and will cover approximately 48 hectares.