The proposed site offered a number of technical and environmental challenges. In addition to providing design and consultancy services WSP’s involvement included co-ordination of topographical and arboricultural surveys which informed the design and layout of the proposed solar development in order to achieve the best environmental fit.WSP were commissioned by The Executive Director of Residents’ Services, West Sussex County Council Project in October 2014 to provide technical and EIA services in respect of a proposed commercial scale (6MW) Photovoltaic (PV) solar energy development at Tangmere Airfield near Chichester.The commission involved design of the solar park plus assessing the environmental impact of the proposals including a Landscape and Visual Appraisal (LVA). The potential effect on the landscape and visual resource of the site and surrounding area was assessed focussing on adjacent residential properties and public footpaths plus view from the nearby South Downs National Park to demonstrate that the design proposals would not unacceptably affect the landscape and visual environment.WSP technical and environmental teams worked together closely to deliver the optimal project design as well as integrated planning and environmental advice. This ensured a robust fixed design was developed taking full account of the technical and environmental constraints.The following technical studies for the application were provided:
- Project Design.
- Technical Due Diligence.
- Hydrology/Flood Risk Assessment.
- Transport.
- Landscape and visual impact.
- Topographical Survey.
- Arboricultural Survey.
