An application to install 209 solar panels at Exeter Services on the M5 has been turned down on safety grounds.

The local council ruled that National Highways had raised legitimate concerns in respect of the impact of glint and glare from the proposed panels upon the use and safety of the adjacent M5 motorway.

Planners said, after considering the matter in detail, that there should not be a reliance upon motorway-side vegetation to mitigate against adverse impacts when such vegetation cannot be guaranteed to remain and provide screening for the lifetime of the proposed development.

The decision letter reads: “There being no confirmation that the proposals would not prejudice the use and safety of the M5, prior approval for the design and external appearance of the development is refused.”

(Picture – Yay Images)