Government Greenlights Massive Mallard Pass Solar Farm Amid Backlash
The government has given the nod to the controversial Mallard Pass solar farm, set to cover a whopping 2,000 acres on the Rutland-Lincolnshire border. Ed Miliband, the new Secretary of State for Energy, signed off on the project last Friday, igniting fierce debate among local residents and politicians alike.
Over 3,000 Locals Petition Against Solar Scheme
More than 3,000 people signed a petition opposing the solar farm, warning it would gobble up prime farmland. Despite this, the government insists the benefits outweigh the damage. The project promises enough clean energy to power around 92,000 homes, boosting the UK’s green energy drive.
Project to Span Over Four Miles in Rutland
Located in Essendine near Stamford, the solar farm will stretch over four miles and is expected to operate for up to 60 years. The decision was held back during the recent election campaign but has now been given the go-ahead.
Local MP Furious, Hints at Legal Fight
Alicia Kearns, Conservative MP for Rutland and Stamford and a staunch opponent of the scheme, slammed the decision. “I am utterly appalled,” she said, calling it “a slap in the face” to campaigners whose concerns were “flagrantly dismissed.” Kearns warned the loss of farmland threatens the UK’s food security and questioned if Miliband fully reviewed the evidence.
“I am utterly appalled. This decision is a slap in the face to those who campaigned against it.” – Alicia Kearns, MP
Government Stands Firm on Approval
David Wagstaff, deputy director for energy infrastructure planning, responded that all objections, including Kearns’, were considered. He said Miliband concluded the public benefits of the solar farm outweigh the harm, justifying the approval.
Nationally Significant Project Shuts Out Local Councils
Due to its scale, the Mallard Pass solar farm is classed as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project. This means South Kesteven and Rutland County Councils had no say in the final decision, sparking frustration locally.
Renewable Energy vs. Farmland: The Battleground Continues
The Mallard Pass project highlights the ongoing clash between green energy ambitions and the protection of valuable farmland. As construction moves ahead, the controversy sizzles on.
