The Voice of Spalding and South Holland
It’s been claimed a village has never been so united against an issue like it is against a planned solar farm.
AUK PE12 says its planned 80 hectare plant north of Roman Bank and east of Middle Marsh Road will provide 48 megawatts will power up to 14,400 homes.
Last week a meeting was held in Holbeach St Marks Village Hall where representatives from the London-based company spoke to local relatives.
A planning application is yet to be decided by South Holland District Council.
Resident Nick Worth arranged for the consultation event after a recent meeting was attended by 70 people.
Some 56 went to speak to the company about the plans.
“It went smoothly, and according to consultants there was lots of constructive comments,” Nick Worth said. “I have been involved with the village for most of my life and have never known a single issue like this to unite the village.
“The majority are clearly opposed to it, mainly around the removal of grade one agricultural land from food production at a time when clearly the country as a whole needs to be producing more, as opposed to bringing in expensive imported food.
“Visual amenity is also a big issue as the area is well known for its large scale, flat open landscape and extensive views, which is why many have settled in the area as it gives them a sense of peace and quiet and chance to enjoy the wonderful wildlife in the area.
That’s not something you will get with an 84 hectare solar farm!”
Documents submitted with the planning application state the solar farm would ‘save over 20,640 tonnes of CO2.’
“The site benefits from existing landscaping which will be maintained and enhanced.
“One of the main reasons the site has been chosen is it proximity to an existing grid collection point.
“The proposed development is temporary and can easily revert back to its current state.”
