Solar Farm project in Bedfordshire
About This Project
Client:
Renewable Connection
Site:
Sandy, Bedfordshire
Introduction:
Consent has recently been granted for a solar farm near Sandy, Bedfordshire. Tree Frontiers were involved in the early stages of the application, providing arboricultural advice as input to the design scheme.
Background:
Tree Frontiers were initially approached by Corylus Planning & Environmental Ltd, the project management for this scheme. We have worked with them on a number of projects in the past hence their recommendation of us to the client – Renewable Connections. Renewable Connections is an award-winning development business, focusing primarily on the development of solar and storage projects within the UK.
The Opportunity:
Plans were being drawn up for a 21MW solar farm which, once operational, could supply enough energy to power 9,588 homes. Corylus contacted us at the end of 2023 when plans for the solar farm were in their infancy. A topographical survey was conducted in January 2024, and at that point we were instructed to carry out a detailed arboricultural survey of the 116 acre site. Initial data was submitted to the client, allowing them to refine their plans, and a second survey was undertaken later that year to provide guidance on a new underground cable route to a nearby substation. Following this we drew up a report which identified seven trees or hedgerows which would need to be removed or partially removed in order to facilitate the proposed plans. Two of these were poor quality trees which would be recommended for removal irrespective of the development scheme due to their deteriorating physiological condition.
Hedgerow within the site
The proposed plans would allow the retention of 162 trees or hedgerows – 96% of the total survey – including 15 mature category A specimens. We also advised that there would be sufficient space within the site to incorporate replacement planting should this be required.
The Results:
Prior to submitting the application to Central Bedfordshire Council, Renewable Connections hosted a Public Exhibition to inform local communities of the proposed plans and invite feedback. Following this our tree schedule, detailed plans and report were submitted as part of the formal planning application. Consent for the scheme was granted in November 2025.
Indicative solar panels
If you require arboricultural input to a similar scheme please contact us at info@treefrontiers.com
Find out more: Trees, Structures & Development