AMENDMENTS to a previously granted scheme for a south Pembrokeshire solar farm by using higher specification panels which would actually see less land covered have been approved by county planners.

Last year, plans for a nine-megawatt solar farm at West Farm, Cosheston, near Pembroke Dock by James Wallwork of One Planet Developments Limited were approved by Pembrokeshire County Council.

The applicants said the scheme would generate enough power for 2,500 homes.

The scheme was initially recommended for refusal before a later recommendation for approval at last March’s planning committee; the scheme supported by Cosheston Community Council, which said the plans would be a natural rounding-off of the site, with no detrimental impact as it would neighbour the existing solar farm.

A supporting statement, through agent Mango Planning & Development Ltd, said: “The proposed development would contribute circa 9,337,000 KWh of renewable electricity to the local area, which will typically produce enough green electricity a year to power about 2,500 homes.

“The proposed development is for a temporary 40-year timescale and will be fully reinstated at the end of its operational life. There will be no loss of agricultural land.”

After last year’s approval, the applicants had asked for a change of planning conditions.

A supporting statement accompanying the amendment request says: “Subsequent to the grant of consent, the applicant has been advised that the solar panels originally proposed are no longer available. It is necessary, therefore, to substitute these with an alternative type.”

It says the proposed alternative panels would be slightly larger in size but “as a consequence of the improved specification of the proposed panels, a reduced site coverage is required to achieve the originally agreed output,” adding: “In particular, it is not now necessary to provide arrays in the small field at the east of the application site.”

The proposed amendments have been approved by planning officers.

Climate change is one of the most urgent and complex challenges that we are currently facing. Whilst it’s important that governments and large corporations do their part in reducing their environmental impact and partaking in sustainable practices, it’s equally as important for individuals to make changes that have a positive impact on our environment – no matter how small. 

With that in mind, here are a few practical things you can do to lower your environmental impact and help combat climate change. 

Reduce your energy consumption 

Burning fossil fuels for energy is one of the most significant contributors to climate change. But there are plenty of things you can do to minimise your daily and yearly energy consumption. 

A few examples are:

• Turning off lights in rooms that aren’t in use or don’t need additional lighting.
• Using energy-efficient appliances where possible. 
• Investing in a smart thermostat to regulate the temperature of your home and avoid using unnecessary heating (this can also help lower your heating bill). 
• Choosing environmentally conscious companies that offer green energy plans. 

Opt for sustainable transport methods 

Cars are another major source of carbon emissions. Luckily, there are numerous greener alternative options available. If your office is relatively close to home, consider walking or cycling to work instead of driving. Many companies offer cycle to work schemes to reduce the cost of your bike, and you’ll also be saving money on fuel – so it’s a win-win. If your workplace is too far to cycle or walk to, public transport is a great alternative.

If you need to drive and your funds will allow it, look into purchasing an electric vehicle as these produce zero carbone emissions. You could also carpool or combine errands into a single trip to decrease the amount of driving you do. 

Recycle and reuse

Waste and landfills are another significant contributing factor to climate change. Ensuring you recycle all recyclable materials and reuse products where possible can help to diminish the amount of waste that ends up in landfills. An easy change you can make is swapping from single use plastic water bottles to reusable ones. 

Educate yourself  

Staying educated about climate change is crucial for understanding the impacts that the current climate crisis poses and making actionable changes. Keep up to date with the latest news regarding climate change, or if you want to take it one step further, you could look into completing an environmental science degree that will truly educate you. 

Start making changes now 

Climate change is a pressing issue but every individual has the power to make a meaningful difference. Whether it be reducing your energy consumption, recycling more, or staying educated, there’s always something you can do to contribute.

A greener, more inclusive future for National Park visitors

PEMBROKESHIRE COAST NATIONAL PARK AUTHORITY has taken a major step forward in improving both accessibility and sustainability with the launch of a new electric minibus. The vehicle, funded by BMW UK’s Recharge in Nature partnership with UK National Parks, alongside support from the Ministry of Defence’s Defence Infrastructure Organisation (DIO) Conservation Stewardship Fund, replaces an ageing diesel model.

The new electric minibus will not only reduce emissions and noise pollution but also enable more people – including those with mobility issues – to access the National Park. It will support initiatives such as guided nature tours and volunteer projects, ensuring that a wider range of visitors can enjoy the park’s beauty and biodiversity.

James Parkin, Director of Nature and Tourism at the Park Authority, said: “The minibus was unveiled during a special volunteer trip to Castlemartin Range – a unique landscape of rare wildlife and military history. Experienced Park Authority guides lead walking and minibus tours across this restricted MOD area, which is otherwise closed to the public during most of the year.

“Over 1,250 people have joined the guided Castlemartin tours in the past four years, and many have asked for more accessible options for friends and family with mobility challenges. This new vehicle will help meet that demand and open the experience to more people.”

Now in its third year, the Recharge in Nature partnership has installed 81 electric vehicle charge points across the Lake District, Peak District, Yorkshire Dales, North York Moors, Dartmoor, and Bannau Brycheiniog, with more coming in 2025. Each National Park involved also receives funding for nature restoration and community impact projects – like the electric minibus at Pembrokeshire.

Emily Barrow, Brand Communication Manager at BMW UK, said: “At BMW, we’re committed to driving positive change through sustainable mobility and environmental stewardship. This new electric minibus is a great example of that – enabling low-impact travel while expanding access to nature for all. We’re proud to support projects that help more people enjoy the UK’s National Parks.”

James Nevitt, Senior Public Access & Recreation Advisor at DIO, added: “We’re delighted to support this initiative, which helps showcase the world-class landscape of Castlemartin in a safe and inclusive way. It’s a chance for more people to appreciate how this land supports both essential military training and diverse wildlife.”

Connecting people to nature

The Park Authority continues to run several community-focused projects aimed at improving wellbeing and access to nature. These include:

Roots to Recovery – a wellbeing initiative with Mind Pembrokeshire, offering outdoor activities to support mental health.

National Park Youth Ranger Scheme – a programme helping young people build conservation skills and connect with nature.

Pathways – a project providing volunteering and training opportunities for those seeking more time outdoors.

One regular participant said: “I learn something new every minute I’m there. We laugh a lot – if we arrive in a bad mood, we leave in a good one.”

By switching to electric transport, the Park Authority is not only cutting its carbon footprint but also enhancing inclusivity – ensuring more people can experience the physical and emotional benefits of Pembrokeshire’s protected landscapes.

To learn more about Park Authority projects or how to get involved, visit: www.pembrokeshirecoast.wales