In the Bury Street Precinct on Thursday, were a group gathered seeking support for a proposed solar farm near Cumnor. The Cumnor Parish Council has voiced its opposition, citing concerns about the potential industrialization of the Greenbelt, the impact on the area’s natural beauty and character, disruption to public rights of way, agriculture, and ecological balance.

Conversely, the group advocating for the solar farm say it would play a role in countering climate change by helping the shift away from carbon energy sources. They said the project would contribute to biodiversity, emphasizing that the land could still be utilized for sheep grazing and wild life. With the consultation period closed, I was not sure of the benefit of signing a petition at this stage but the planning application on the VWHDC Planning portal has reference P23/V2624/FUL.

Meanwhile, nearby, Riverford Organic Farmers had a stall where people can sign up for organic vegetable and food boxes. The juxtaposition of these two stalls highlights the contrasting approaches to the use of farm land.

Organic farming, as exemplified by Riverford, relies on natural methods for pest control and fertilization. This method, while less intensive, is attractive to some consumers who are able and willing to pay a premium for naturally produced food.