Caring for The Community
August 12, 2017
Community engagement is an important part of our planning approach as it allows us to understand stakeholders’ views and expectations. Community engagement is underway and will be ongoing as the development of Winton Solar Farm progresses.
FRV has completed detailed assessments of possible impacts on near neighbours such as glare and stormwater runoff during planning for the project. We are also engaging with neighbours to share information about construction as it progresses and manage any impacts wherever possible.
What about the local environment?
The endangered Regent Honeyeater is known to be present in the area. A Vegetation Protection Overlay applies onsite to protect the habitat for this species. We will preserve large remnants of native trees on the site, retain important nesting trees and avoid plantings completed by the Regent Honeyeater Project team to preserve habitat for this important species. Construction and operation of the Winton Solar Farm will have little impact on surrounding waterways.
FRV will also work in partnership with the Regent Honeyeater Project team to fund and plant more habitat corridors within the region.
Community Value
Construction of the Winton Solar Farm will bring considerable investment to the region. The solar farm will also create a new, sustainable industry that will complement the existing agricultural industry. We are keen for local business to be involved in providing a range of services such as electrical work, earthworks, transport, materials, fencing and hospitality during Winton Solar Farm’s construction and operation stages. We will also look to provide training to local workers – especially younger workers – to ensure specialist skills developed in the course of the project’s construction stay in the area.
How can I get involved?
We are regularly in contact with residents and stakeholders. To register your interest in the project, please send us an email via the contact us page.