The location of the Draycott Solar Farm

The intended project location is south of the village of Cresswell .The rural undulating landscape and already existing vegetation provide a natural screening for the solar farm, which will be even further enhanced through new hedges and mitigation measures.

At the beginning of this development stage, the site originally existed of three parcels in two different local Districts; Staffordshire Moorlands and East Staffordshire. Following a range of surveys and early engagement with both District Councils, Kronos decided to reduce the size of the solar park to one main site. This meant that the original three parcels of 150 acres was reduced to one site of 90 acres.

Our first criteria for favouring this location is the avoidance of protected areas and land of high agricultural value. Other criteria include a low ecological impact, coordination with the development policies of the local authorities, good solar radiation, and most importantly, having a nearby option for a grid connection.

Click on the image below to see the location.

Constraints map

What makes this location special?

Apart from all the technical and economic considerations underlying a solar farm, one of the most decisive aspects is its availability. We have carefully analysed all of the criteria, and we believe this location is suitable because:

  • There are no immediate neighbours with direct views into the site;
  • Natural hedges and vegetation provide good screening;
  • The agricultural quality of the terrain can be boosted through the passive use of the land;
  • Through the mitigation proposals, the ecology at the site will be enhanced;
  • It is in accordance with the local policies; and
  • The project contributes to the national Net Zero Target.