The Local Access Forum Has Spoken Again

STELL SOLAR FARM: THE LOCAL ACCESS FORUM HAS NOW SPOKEN
A significant new voice has entered the debate over the proposed highway works for Stell Solar Farm.
The North Yorkshire Local Access Forum (NYLAF) has formally written to North Yorkshire Council about the proposed changes to the highway network needed to facilitate construction traffic for Stell Solar Farm.
And its message is very clear.
The Forum says it was "very disappointed" that NYC Highways did not consult it at the first opportunity.
It says that the proposed passing places, verge reduction, hedgerow trimming and lane widening would "completely change the character" of the narrow rural routes concerned.
Its particular concern is Lords Lane:
• approximately 850 metres of narrow, hedged lane
• six proposed passing places
• intended to accommodate 16.5-tonne wagons
• with the Forum saying that substantial loss of verge — and more than mere hedge trimming — would realistically be required.
The Forum says the resulting change from a quiet lane to a wagon-busy road would have a considerable impact on people who use the lane without a car.
And there is an important statutory point.
Under section 94(5) of the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000, North Yorkshire Council is required to have regard to relevant advice from its Local Access Forum.
Section 130 of the Highways Act 1980 also places a duty on the highway authority to assert and protect the public's rights to the use and enjoyment of its highways.
So this is not simply another objection to Stell Solar Farm.
The Council now has formal advice from its own Local Access Forum raising serious concerns about the effect of the proposed highway works on public access, amenity and the character of these rural routes.
The question is simple: how will North Yorkshire Council take that advice into account when determining the planning application?
The Stop Stell Solar Farm Action Group will be asking the Council that question.

 We are now raising money for professional planning and legal representation, if you are able to help, please donate via our Go Fund Me page using this link: https://share.google/hnql0s8Gs6GdbTLl2 All donations, large and small are very much appreciated.

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