Government approves UK's largest solar farm

The UK's largest power-producing solar farm has been approved by the government after a planning inquiry.

The Springwell Solar Farm, between Lincoln and Sleaford, will power 180,000 homes, developer EDF power solutions UK said.

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero gave the go ahead despite opposition from residents.

Marc Williams from the Springwell Solar Action Group said he was "disgusted" at the decision and vowed to "keep fighting this".

The site, near Navenby, will cover an area the size of 1,700 football pitches and incorporate a battery storage facility.

Energy Minister Michael Shanks said: "We are driving further and faster for clean homegrown power that we control to protect the British people and bring down bills for good.

"It is crucial we learn the lessons of the conflict in the Middle East – solar is one of the cheapest forms of power available and is how we get off the rollercoaster of international fossil fuel markets and secure our own energy independence."

Opponents raised concerns about the loss of farmland, the impact on the landscape and the safety of the lithium-ion batteries.

"I'm fuming," Williams said.

"It shows a completely, complete lack of democratic accountability in this country."

He said Energy Secretary Ed Milliband had "taken no account of the local views of people and he's just ridden roughshod across the community and will basically destroy approximately 4,000 acres just in this area alone".

Local Conservative councillor Rob Kendrick, who spoke against the project at the inquiry, described the decision as "sad news for Lincolnshire and its residents."

"Very disappointed but not surprised," he said.

"There are no beneficiaries in terms of the people of Lincolnshire.

"The landscape will be changed. Tourism is worth £2bn to Lincolnshire and that will be impacted."

The developer said the project would incorporate new footpaths and hedgerows and a community fund to support local projects.

Matthew Boulton from EDF welcomed the government approval describing it as "an important step forward for Springwell Solar Farm".

"I would like to thank everyone who took part in the public examination process and consultations," he said.

"As the project moves forward, we remain committed to working collaboratively with local communities and partners to reduce the impacts of construction while delivering long-term benefits for the region."

The site is expected to start producing electricity from 2029.

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