A major solar development proposed on farmland near Dale Abbey has sparked alarm among residents who say it would destroy one of the most historic and peaceful landscapes in Erewash.
The scheme, known as the Boyah Grange Solar Farm, would see around 121 acres of land covered with 75,000 solar panels, each standing around 3.5 metres high. The site sits just behind the village church and close to the ancient Hermitage cave, making it one of the most sensitive areas in the district.
“The Jewel in the Crown of Erewash”
The land behind Dale Abbey’s church has remained virtually untouched for centuries. Locals call it “the jewel in the crown of Erewash” – a place where walkers, wildlife and heritage all meet in a quiet corner of the Green Belt.
If approved, the site would be transformed into a power-generating plant surrounded by fencing, CCTV cameras and access roads. Two public footpaths that cross the fields would remain open, but residents fear the character of the area would be lost forever.
Heritage and Green Belt Concerns
The plans have been lodged by ABEI Energy UK, a renewable energy company developing solar projects across the country.
Campaigners argue the proposal conflicts with both Green Belt policy and heritage protection rules, as the fields sit just a short distance from the Dale Abbey Conservation Area, All Saints Church, and the Hermitage, a Scheduled Ancient Monument believed to date back to the 12th century.
Critics say the development would permanently alter views of the abbey valley and set a dangerous precedent for other protected sites.
Supporters of the campaign stress that they are not opposed to renewable energy, but believe solar farms should be located on brownfield or industrial land, rather than historic countryside.
Local Voices Speak Out
Residents have described the plan as “out of scale” and “entirely inappropriate” for the location. Many have written to Erewash Borough Council urging planners to reject the scheme, warning it would damage the setting of one of Derbyshire’s most iconic rural landmarks.
A community group, supported by local parish councillors, has launched a public campaign through daleabbey.com, encouraging people to register objections before the decision is made. They say it takes less than two minutes to do so.
Planning Still Under Review
The application – listed under reference ERE/0825/0028 – is currently being processed by Erewash Borough Council’s planning department.
Because of the site’s size and location, an Environmental Impact Assessment is required, covering issues such as heritage, ecology, and visual impact.
A final decision could be made within weeks unless public opposition persuades councillors to delay or refuse the plans.
“Once It’s Gone, It’s Gone”
Campaigners say this is a defining moment for the village and for the borough’s rural identity.
“Once this landscape is industrialised, it will never return to what it was,” said one local resident. “We all want green energy — but not at the cost of our green fields.”
For those who wish to have their say, more information and details on how to comment can be found at http://www.daleabbey.com.