A solar ‘farm’ off Redbridge Road at Crossways could be there for up to 40 years – 15 more than originally planned.

A request has been made for the time extension for the scheme, which was granted planning permission for 25 years at Crossways Pit in 2011.

An application to Dorset Council asks for the change in the duration of the project saying that an extra 15 years would produce enough additional power for more than 20,000 homes over the period.

The 5 Mega Watt project has more than 20,000 panels which produce enough power for 1,175 homes. It takes up around more than a third of the 27 hectare site.

Comments on the application to extend the time period for the solar farm can be submitted to the council up until July 2.