Campaspe councillors to vote on Rushworth solar farm plan

The development is proposed for a 1000-hectare site along Old Corop and Bedwell roads, north-west of the Rushworth township.

In a report to their meeting on Tuesday night, councillors are told there would be 1.193 million panels installed at the site. The farm would be built in two stage, developers have told the shire.

The plans were put up for public comment twice - in March 2020 and January this year. Twelve objections were lodged, and all remain outstanding despite a consultation meeting in February.

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Among the main points of concern is the loss of what is currently farm land to the development.

"The land is within the Goulburn Murray Irrigation District and identified within Loddon Mallee North Regional Growth Plan as being within an 'irrigation district'," shire staff say in their report to councillors, "however the land does not currently have an irrigation outlet or a formal water use license.

"The land is currently partially used for cropping and the remaining being associated with sheep grazing.

"Due to the nature of the design it is unlikely to result in a permanent loss of agricultural land, as it does not rely on any buildings and earthworks that cannot be reversed.

"The applicant has advised that the land beneath the solar panels will remain being used for agriculture and sheep grazing can continue to maintain the grass and surrounding area."

Objectors are also worried about the solar farm's effect on nearby roads, the risk of environmental problems, and potential for financial impact on local businesses.

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Despite the opposition, shire staff have recommended the plans be approved.

"The proposal is a suitable site selection due to the low potential for higher value agricultural usage of the land, no irrigation infrastructure and setbacks from sensitive interfaces (dwellings and wetlands)," staff tell councillors.

"The design has been carefully considered and complies with the Guidelines and therefore the proposal is appropriate subject to conditions."

The agenda for Tuesday night's meeting can be viewed here.

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