A ‘HUGE’ solar farm will be constructed on farmland near Andover after councillors gave plans for a more than 75-hectare project the green light.

Low Carbon UK Solar Investment Company proposed the construction and operation of a solar photovoltaic farm at land south-east of Perham Down.

It means that, on the road between East Cholderton and Tidworth, approximately 75.53 hectares of grade three, “good quality”, fields will soon be covered in solar panels.

However, for its 40-year life, the farm will produce enough power for around 16,500 homes.

Members of Test Valley Borough Council’s northern area planning committee previously postponed making a decision on the application, after concerns were raised.

Cllr Phil Lashbrooke said the “huge” site should not be allowed.

You can read the full story and reaction in this week's paper. Also in this week's edition:

  • A by-election has been announced in an Andover Town Council ward. 
  • Andover's Youth MP is set to launch an exciting new project which will see business-savvy young people across the borough take part in an Apprentice-style contest.
  • A group of tradespeople and businesses in Andover have come together to renovate a woman’s kitchen. 
  • An Andover teenager was in for a life changing experience after he persuaded a local businessman to take him to prom in his sports car.
  • A new shop offering a range of popular drinks which opened up in Andover’s shopping centre earlier this month has launched its full menu.
  • An Andover school catering team has been honoured with three national prizes.
  • COMMERCIAL property developer Stoford has been appointed to deliver the new Andover premises of international stairlift company and lift services’ manufacturer, Stannah.
  • Andover town centre will be bursting with family-friendly events this summer, including the return of the council’s popular Four Fun Fridays project.
  • PLUS: Two pages of YOUR letters
  • PICTURES: Andover Carnival returns to town
  • Pull-out prom picture special
  • Kit Malthouse MP's column
  • An eight-page puzzle special
  • Entertainment news
  • Sports news
  • And much, much more
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