A FLOOD of opposition has greeted a proposal for a solar farm north of Alresford.

By the start of this week 119 objections had been received in little over a week for plans for a solar farm on 54 acres at Godsfield, near Old Alresford, generating enough power for 3,000 homes.

More than 20 objections had greeted a request from Anesco last year for whether an environmental impact assessment was needed for the scheme. The city council said one was not needed.

Now Anesco has now put in a full planning application to include transformers, a substation, security fence and gate, incorporating an infra-red beam system.

It has sparked a barrage of objections with many citing the location next to a long-distance footpath.

Khalid Aziz, Chronicle columnist from St Mary Bourne, wrote: "I strongly object to this proposal as it is clearly in totally the wrong place. The Three Castles Path is a vital part of Winchester and Hampshire heritage and as such should not be blighted by a sea of solar panels. In short this is totally the wrong place for such a project."

John Lailey, of Lower Wield, also objected: "We know from experience these are huge unsightly constructions surrounded by ugly fencing, numerous threatening signs, a constant buzz and video cameras, and this will be seen from miles away."

Richard Corbett, of Holden Farm, Cheriton, wrote: "The proposed site is a particularly attractive part of Hampshire. Surely all new warehouses on brownfield sites are better places for solar panels than pristine countryside which is also used for food production."

Lorna Robertson Timmis, of Upper Wield, wrote: "I strenuously object to such a proposal on the grounds that this an area of incredible beauty along the Three Castles Path which is enjoyed by dozens of locals and other explorers from further away all through the year.

"This proposed development will damage local biodiversity, wreak havoc with the local environment and trash our local unspoilt countryside."

The proposal is likely to go to planning committee because of the number of objections.