Neighbours Express Concerns
Residents along Dillons Point Rd, situated between Blenheim and the sea, are expressing apprehension over plans for a solar farm in their tranquil neighborhood. Energy Marlborough, a subsidiary of Marlborough Lines, purchased a property near the Ōpaoa River for $1.3 million, outlining its intentions in an August letter.
Reservations and Community Concerns
While not opposing solar farming, neighbors are concerned about potential industrialization of their rural community. Teresa McKinney, a resident adjacent to the proposed site, highlighted risks related to flooding, tsunamis, earthquakes, and the historical significance of the area near the Wairau Bar.
Project Details and Proposed Mitigations
Under the proposal, a new overhead power line and water tanks for panel cleaning would be installed. The level of “development activity” is compared to establishing a new vineyard, with minimal staffing for maintenance and routine checks. Land under the panels would be available for sheep grazing, and improvements to the property entrance are planned.
Balancing Transparency and Community Engagement
Marlborough Lines CEO Tim Cosgrove acknowledged concerns and stated that more information would be available once the resource consent is lodged. He emphasized the transparency of the process and believes that many concerns will be addressed during the consent process.
Community Resistance
Despite assurances of plantings to mitigate visual effects, some neighbors remain skeptical, expressing concerns about road conditions and increased traffic. The proposed solar farm, viewed as an industrial installation, has stirred resistance among residents who value the rural character of their environment.
As the resource consent process unfolds, residents and stakeholders await detailed plans to address concerns and evaluate the impact on their community.
Source: i.stuff.co.nz
