Parkes Solar Farm

I would like to make a submission regarding the above Solar Farm as we are the adjoining neighbours on the southern and eastern side of the developments. From the outset I should advise of a level of conflict of interest as I am also the Mayor of Parkes Shire, and although not the consent authority has a strong interest in the outcome of the decision.
We have 3 issues for consideration:
1) Visual Impact.
Our house is over the hill and does not directly face the development, however the majority of our farm does. The current landscape has many tree corridors planted by the property owner of the proposed development and myself so that it is environmentally protective against strong winds, providing habitat for native flora and fauna as well as being visually appealing. When Neon presented to Council it was indicated that there would be perimeter plantings to lessen the visual impact. My reading of the plans now only sees this opposite dwellings. I would ask that a condition of consent be considered that requests a fenced corridor of trees be planted around at least the eastern and southern boundaries to link into existing tree lines to encourage wildlife movement. Landcare recommends tree corridors be of 5 lines of trees, however 3 lines would provide adequate screening in my opinion.
2) Water Run Off.
Natural water flow from the site travels in a southerly direction. The water firstly fills dams on John Smeatons blocks and then flows down a designated water course to fill a dam on my property. Given the decrease in run off events due to climate change and the potential for additional run off from the solar panels I would ask that a condition of consent be formulated that allows the existing and potential future flows of water from the site be allowed to continue in the southerly direction as they currently do.
3) Fire precautions.
Given that the adjoining subdivision power lines started a major fire that burnt all the way to Millers Lookout only a couple of years ago, fire precautions are seen as paramount. My understanding is that solar farms are reasonably safe in this regard but I beleive the undergrowth around and under the panels should be kept at a safe level. Lightning is a common cause of fire in this area. Mowing would be an expensive exercise and grazing the area with sheep on a regular basis may be good alternative. Should this be a sensible option I would be happy to discuss conditions, access and leasing options with the owners.
As a general comment I am in favour of Australia pursuing solar energy and beleive this to be best located on lower productive agricultural land. That said, I can fully understand the siting of this proposal on highly productive agricultural land because of its proximity to the sub station and distribution network.
Thank you for the opportunity to comment on this proposal.
Yours sincerely, Ken Keith OAM on behalf of KJ and S Keith.

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Please find written submission attached.

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See letter attached.

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