A proposed solar farm in Cumbria the size of 70 football pitches has drawn dozens of objections from residents. High Rigg Solar Limited has submitted plans to Westmorland and Furness Council for the development on agricultural land at Calthwaite, near Penrith. The company said the project is necessary to meet renewable energy targets and help combat climate change. Planning documents confirmed the site would sit next to Skelton Pasture Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) and the Cumbrian Marsh Fritillary Special Area of Conservation. While noting community support for renewable energy in principle, the council said: “It is felt that the large scale of this proposal will be overbearing on the local landscape and its impact on the community.”The council will decide on the application after the consultation period ends on 18 September.