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 so I do welcome that ministers are looking to increase the UK's current 14GW of solar capacity. 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 feel very strongly our planning system should protect important natural landscapes and heritage assets. It is crucial the Labour Government ensures the planning system balances these considerations against the need to deliver a secure energy system.
It is also imperative the best and most versatile agricultural land is protected. Guidance from the Department for Housing, Communities and Local Government encourages local planning authorities to 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.
The decision in July, with just 3 days of deliberation, by the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero, Ed Milliband, to grant a Development Consent Order for the giant Sunnica solar and battery farm was concerning. He overrode multiple objections by thousands of local residents, businesses and organisations who felt the scheme would 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 made 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 new Labour Government's decision, which ignored the recommendations of the Examining Authority reflected 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.
It is really important this Labour Government also addresses the cumulative impact of large-scale solar farms, given that we are increasingly seeing geographical clustering of proposed solar developments in some areas.
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 previous Conservative Government's decision to update the National Planning Policy Framework to ensure food production on high value farmland is adequately weighted in the planning process.
You may also be interested in reading this: Mims Davies MP letter to Secretary of State on NPPF/Planning Consultation September 24
