Barnsdale Gardens, a popular Rutland spot known for it's beautifully designed gardens recognisable from BBC's Gardener's World, could face closure if a 160,000 panel solar farm is approved to be built. 

The Gardens were first established 40 years ago by horticulturist and broadcaster Geoff Hamilton, who presented Gardener's World between 1983 and 1996. The famous gardens became the familiar backdrop for the show, recognisable by gardening fans across the country. 

The proposed plan will put 160,000 solar panels on the farmland between Barnsdale Gardens and Rutland Wildlife Sanctuary. 

Barnsdale Garden's has a stunning display of horticultural delights seen regularly on the BBC show (Photo: Barnsdale Gardens)

According to Nick Hamilton, who took over the running of Barnsdale following the death of his father in 1996, he will have no option but to close down if the solar farm is allowed to be built. 

He says that the peace and tranquillity that is an essential part of the gardens will be shattered by the farm's noisy machinery, ruining it for visitors and the local wildlife. 

"We are in a beautiful setting," said Nick, "and we rely on return visitors but if people feel as if they are coming to an industrial estate, they are not going to come back.  

"We are one of the biggest tourist attractions in Rutland. [...] Without visitors we can't function, and I don't want Barnsdale to go down the plug hole." 

Residents are also angry about the proposal to build on the land. 

Barnsdale Garden's brings in thousands of tourists to Rutland every year. (Photo: Barnsdale Gardens)

If the solar panels were to go ahead, the developers, Econergy, are estimated to pay Rutland County Council £125,000 per year. 

A final decision will be made about the solar farm at Rutland County Council's planning committee after 25th February.