Peter Davison

Wiltshire Council approved a proposal from the Ministry of Defence to install 3,582 solar panels at its Lyneham base to supply power for a new training school and accommodation block. Local parish officials raised concerns about flooding, prompting requirements for drainage measures and a formal drainage strategy request. Other solar installations across Wiltshire are progressing, though some larger projects have attracted opposition.

Wiltshire Council approved the installation of 3,582 solar panels at the Ministry of Defence site in Lyneham to power a new technical training school and accommodation block. Local parish representatives supported the plan on the condition that drainage measures address flooding risks, which council officers also emphasised. The MoD has submitted a drainage strategy in response. The project comes amid broader solar initiatives across Wiltshire, including National Trust proposals and controversy over larger developments such as Lime Down Solar Farm.

The Environment Agency is considering enforcement action against Hills Waste Solutions after renewed odour problems at its waste treatment plant in Westbury. A fault in the plant’s newly installed bio‑filter led to a resurgence of the long‑standing ‘Westbury Whiff’, prompting complaints from residents who have raised concerns for more than a decade. Inspectors deemed the site non‑compliant with its permit and ordered immediate corrective action while increasing oversight until the issues are resolved.