Petition Against Turning Epping Forest Agricultural and Greenbelt Land into Solar Farms - Specifically Opposing the Proposed Upland Solar Farm Between Thornwood Common and Epping Upland.

We, the undersigned, strongly oppose the Upland Solar Farm proposal, which seeks to cover approximately 96 hectares (237 acres) of productive agricultural land between Thornwood Common and Epping Upland.

This development would be an inappropriate use of Green Belt land. It is not allocated for such use in the Epping Forest Local Plan and, if permitted, would irreversibly alter the character of this cherished rural landscape.

📍 The site lies on both sides of Upland Road, near Hayleys Manor Farm. This is prime farmland—the kind of land we need to protect to ensure long-term food security. While we support renewable energy, it should not come at the cost of our best and most versatile agricultural land.

This application is one of eight solar farm proposals across Epping Forest District, many of which target Green Belt and high-quality farmland. Together, these pose a serious and cumulative threat to the countryside we hold dear.

✅ We believe in renewable energy but not at any cost.
Solar power should be pursued in sensible locations such as: Brownfield sites, rooftops, low-grade or degraded land NOT on irreplaceable land that sustains wildlife, supports farming, and offers green space for future generations.

🌱 The proposed solar farm risks damaging biodiversity, reducing habitat quality, and undermining the ecological balance. Experts consistently advise avoiding prime agricultural land for solar development.

The farmland between Epping Upland and Thornwood Common is environmentally, agriculturally, and culturally valuable, and should be protected as vital agricultural land and greenbelt. Once lost, it cannot be replaced.

 
✉️ We call on:
Epping Forest District Council’s Planning Committee to reject the Upland Solar Farm application
The Planning Inspectorate and Secretary of State, should an appeal follow, to uphold the District Council's objection (if this is committees decision) and protect the Green Belt.

✍️ Help protect our countryside. Sign the petition today and join the fight to defend Epping Forest's Green Belt.