01
The site covers 34 acres/14 hectares of land that has been identified by a thorough site selection process. The site is close to GSK, with the private wire travelling a short distance (100-150 metres) beneath Old Knebworth Lane.
02
The site is well screened by hedgerows and trees with further landscaping proposed. The site is not overlooked by any residential properties, as it is bound by the A1(M) to the west and Knebworth Golf Course to the east, which is already heavily screened by mature trees.
03
The national register confirms that the site does not comprise the highest value agricultural land (Grades 1 or 2) and, owing to its intensive agricultural use, has limited ecological value. There are also no Public Rights of Way on site. The development will have a limited visual impact on both the surrounding area and nearby heritage assets.
A small area at the south of the site forms part of an unused section of the golf driving range, adjacent to Knebworth Golf Course. Solar panels are proposed here, near holes 11, 12, and 13.
04
Access to the site for construction and maintenance will be via Old Knebworth Lane. The proposed entrance is an existing access point that has been used by heavy agricultural machinery for many years.