My colleagues and I firmly support the UK's target of reaching net zero by 2050 and I recognise that solar energy is a key building block in ensuring we meet this target. However, I share the genuine concerns many people have about the impact large-scale solar farms may have on our rural environment. As a Sussex MP, a county blessed with some of the most quintessentially British scenery, I agree that our planning system should protect important natural landscapes and heritage assets.
With regards to the location of solar farms, it is imperative the best and most versatile agricultural land is protected. I believe local planning authorities should focus on using previously developed land and non-agricultural land for large-scale solar farm development, so long as the land is not of high environmental value. It is also important to address the cumulative impact of large-scale solar farms, given that we are increasingly seeing geographical clustering of proposed solar developments in some areas. Given that many solar farms are temporary structures, local planning authorities are also advised to ensure that land is restored to its previous use.
The recent decision by the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero to grant a Development Consent Order for the giant Sunnica solar and battery farm is concerning as it appears the voices of thousands of local residents, businesses and organisations have not been listened to. They felt the scheme will permanently and detrimentally impact the landscape of a vast part of West Suffolk and remove thousands of acres of land from food production.
As the Examining Authority makes clear the scheme's "disbenefits are not outweighed by the public benefit" which is why it "recommends that development consent for the application be refused in the terms sought." It is extremely worrying that the Labour Government's decision, which has ignored the recommendations of the Examining Authority after only one week in office, having supposedly considered 1360 recommendations, reflects a blatant disregard for the evidence. The representations the Secretary of State has rejected included opposition from all relevant local authorities, and the Suffolk Fire and Rescue Service.
In addition, food security is an essential part of our national security. While solar and farming can be complementary, I believe developers should have consideration for ongoing food production. I supported the last Government's decision to update national planning policy to make clear that the availability of agricultural land used for food production should be considered when deciding what sites are most appropriate for development. The purpose of this was to ensure the availability of land for food production is adequately weighted in the planning process. I am therefore concerned that the new Labour Government is proposing to remove this from national planning policy.
While I do note that the consultation is seeking views on other ways to ensure development supports and does not compromise food production, I will be carefully following the consultation outcome to see if the wording on food production is removed.
You may also be interested in reading this: Mims Davies MP letter to Secretary of State on NPPF/Planning Consultation September 24
