RESIDENTS in Fivehead, Curry Mallet and Isle Abbots are breathing a sigh of relief after plans to build a large solar farm on their doorstep have been withdrawn.

The communities had set up a website and an action group to help combat plans to build the 45-acre solar farm.

Their main concerns included the visual effect as well as extra flooding problems being posed.

If built, the plans would have seen 28,000 black panels placed on to the field which backs on to Iberry Lane and Stowey Road - in between all three parishes.

But in a letter from representatives Lumicity to parish councillors, chief executive Tristan Fischer said: “My meetings with you confirmed my initial concern that the site did not meet my own standard for what is an acceptable visual impact - that is why we will not be applying for planning permission.

“I wish you all the very best and you can enjoy your summer in the knowledge that you won't be getting a solar project at Iberry Road anytime soon.”

Curry Mallet parish councillor Grant Turner said it was good news while Fivehead Parish Council chairman Malcolm Cavill added: “We are relieved - it was clear at public meetings that a significant percentage of Fivehead residents were opposed to the site because of the visual impact on the surrounding area.”

Tony Habberfield, chair of Isle Abbotts Parish Council said: “We are very pleased and I hope it does not rise its ugly head again in the next two years.”

Lumicity said the solar farm could have produced enough daytime electricity for between 2,000 and 4,000 homes nearby.

The news comes after local government secretary Eric Pickles announced last week that communities have a greater say on the siting of wind turbines and solar farms.

Mr Pickles said: “The views of local people must be listened to when making planning decisions.”

“Meeting Britain's energy needs should not be used to justify the wrong development in the wrong location.”