PLANS for a 14-hectare 20,000-panel solar farm in the New Forest National Park have been thrown out.

The project was proposed for construction on land at Limolands Farm, Vaggs Lane, Hordle, and would have been used to generate electricity.

Hordle Parish Council had indicated support for the scheme but Sway Parish Council strongly opposed it.

Members of the New Forest National Park Authority voted against the plans, citing concerns over the visual impact it would have on the surrounding area.

Member Oliver Crosthwaite-Eyre said: "This is a very easy decision for us to make and our officers have made the right recommendation.

"This is industrialisation of our national park and our prime duty is to conserve it."