Bonshaw $237m solar farm to have 'unavoidable' impacts on Aboriginal sites

The Bonshaw Solar Farm will produce up to 200 megawatts of electricity and will have a battery storage capability of 300 megawatts.

Located about 66km north of Inverell along the Bruxner Highway, the project is expected to create 190 jobs during its construction and 10 ongoing jobs.

"[The project] will have long-term positive impacts for the region through local employment and economic benefits," documents lodged with the state government state.

A large number of Aboriginal heritage sites were discovered at the solar farm's proposed location and "direct impact to some sites is considered unavoidable".

In total 35 sites were found, 29 of which were stone artefacts including isolated finds and stone artefacts scatters. Seven scar trees were also discovered.

"Careful detailed design of the project foot print has successfully avoid nine of these sites," the documents stated.

To have your say, visit the NSW Department of Planning's major projects website.

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