Plans for the West Burton Solar Farm Elicit Concerns
Councillors have voiced fears about a proposed solar farm in the West Lindsey area of Lincolnshire, raising concerns about the possible transformation of the area's picturesque scenery into what they describe as an 'industrial eyesore'.
The West Burton Solar Project's proposal for a solar energy park, covering three separate expanses of land to the north of Saxilby and south of Marton, was discussed by Lincolnshire County Council’s Planning and Regulation Committee.
The Solar Farm Proposals
With an estimated coverage of around 900 hectares, the proposed panels are projected to produce approximately 480MW of energy. This will then be transferred via underground cables to the West Burton Substation. The site suggested for this project is encased by farmed land and woodland, with Broxholme being the nearest township.
Officers have presented an Impact Report to the committee, which will soon be proposed to the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero.
Key Findings of the Report
The report notably highlighted that the project would have some positive impacts, including the generation of renewable, clean energy and aiding national endeavours to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. It recognised the likelihood of increased biodiversity via the mitigation efforts proposed in conjunction with the development.
"There are some limited economic benefits arising from the potential creation of employment opportunities and increased spending on local services during the construction phase. However, these would be time-limited and therefore need to be balanced against the negative impacts identified." stated the report.
These negative impacts include the potential loss of Grade 3a land, likely alteration to the appearance and character of the region, effects on public rights of way, uncertainty surrounding the effects on local heritage, and concerns over highway access to the location.
Councillors' Reactions
Councillor Tom Smith "This essentially turns what is, at present, a picturesque and typical Lincolnshire view of agricultural land into, let’s be frank, what is essentially an industrial eyesore that would span swathes of the district,…" voiced his worries about the potential detrimental impact on the economy, including tourism and agriculture.
Councillor Marianne Overton expressed her apprehension over the loss of agricultural value and potential impact on food production. "What food are we not producing, what are we not doing if this happens – it’s important to make that clear." she said.
The final report will be submitted to the Secretary of State by 26th November, with the officers authorised to make amendments to the report, subject to receiving the results of the agricultural investigation. The Planning Committee will further discuss the report on 4th December, permitting councillors to include additional comments to be submitted by 6th December.