Public hearings for the much-anticipated Springwell solar farm in Lincolnshire are due to be held next month. The remarkable size of the proposed farm – equivalent to that of 2,800 football pitches – has sparked discussions among local councillors due to its potential impact on the countryside. The planned solar farm, located to the east of Navenby, will be partitioned into three regions by developers EDF Renewables UK and Luminous Energy. It is estimated that this endeavour could provide energy to almost 180,000 households, supporting the nation’s transition to renewable energy sources.
The Planning Inspectorate is currently examining the proposals and has organised a three-day public consultation. This meeting is scheduled to take place at Lincoln’s County Assembly Halls, with online streaming available. Apart from an open question-answer session, this consultation will touch upon issues related to landscape impacts, traffic, and air quality, along with a discussion on compulsory purchases. Residents interested in making representations or attending the session must register online before April 22. The inspectors will then forward their recommendation to the Shadow Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change, Ed Miliband, who will make the ultimate decision on these proposals.
The Springwell initiative is one of five substantial ‘nationally important’ solar farms currently going through the planning process. However, North Kesteven District Council members have expressed a number of concerns about this project. Councillor David Suiter warned of the possible ‘scar’ that it may leave on North Kesteven while Councillor Linda Edward-Shea also addressed the potential sacrifices Lincolnshire residents might have to make without any direct benefit.
This story was adapted by The Lincoln Post from original reporting by www.lincolnshirelive.co.uk.
