REVISED plans for a controversial solar farm proposed for land owned by South Dorset MP Richard Drax are set to go before the district council.

Original proposals for the site in Mapperton, East Dorset, had called for panels to be laid across 175 acres of arable farmland – a site equivalent to 110 football pitches.

However, Wiltshire-based developer Good Energy is now seeking approval for a site covering 106 acres in total instead.

More than 500 people living in the area objected to the first application, and the plans were left hanging in the balance after those behind the scheme pulled out of a judicial review secured by protesters.

The development on the Charborough Estate was granted planning permission by the district council despite objections.

However, campaigners then secured a legal challenge amid disagreements about planning procedures – in particular the need to complete an environmental impact assessment.

Although this is not always necessary, officers from East Dorset District Council later agreed that it was the case.

Hugo House of Good Energy said the revised plans will be submitted at the end of this month.

Residents are invited to view the plans at either Winterborne Zelston Village Hall on Wednesday between 3pm and 7.30pm, or Sturminster Marshall Memorial Hall on Thursday between 3pm and 7.30pm.

“We’ve listened to feedback from our previous application and the new plans are for a considerably smaller development, across just three fields – a reduction of almost 40 per cent,” said Mr House.

“We hope as many local people as possible will come along and see for themselves what we’re now proposing.

“We have listened to feedback and have been able to decrease the site size whilst still generating a significant amount of renewable electricity. This is a great opportunity to ask any questions about the project and learn how the community can benefit.”

If approved, the farm would generate enough clean electricity to supply 6,000 homes.

For more information, visit goodenergy.co.uk/dorsetsolar/mapperton-farm