Plans for a major new solar project, with the potential capacity to power 400,000 homes, have been accepted for examination by the Planning Inspectorate.
If approved, the Great North Road Solar and Biodiversity Park would see approximately 1.5m solar panels situated across nearly 4,000 acres of land to the north of Newark, with a maximum generation capacity of 800MW.
After years of development and public consultation to form the proposals, developers Elements Green submitted an application in June, which has now been accepted for review.
An updated overview of the Great North Road Solar and Biodiversity Park plans which have been submitted to the UK Planning Inspectorate. Photo: Element Green.
As a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project, examination of the plans must be managed by the UK Planning Inspectorate, with a final decision to be made by the Secretary of State.
Feedback from consultations has influenced the design of the project, such as the suggestion to use the land housing solar panels to graze sheep.
Also included within the plans are the creation of over 800 acres of dedicated biodiversity space, the planting of 60,000 trees and over 50 km of new hedgerow.
Additionally, 21 new permissive footpaths are proposed, covering over 12 km, with six new permissive bridleways.
Solar panels.
Mark Noone, UK Project Director at Elements Green, said: “Having our application for Great North Road Solar and Biodiversity Park accepted for examination is a key milestone and a testament to the hard work of our project team.
“The input we received throughout the various consultation rounds has played a vital role in shaping a stronger, more responsive proposal, and we are thankful to everyone who took the time to get involved.
“As we enter the examination stage, we encourage anyone with an interest in the project to explore the application documents and consider submitting a Relevant Representation.
“We remain committed to delivering a project that not only generates clean, renewable energy but also enhances biodiversity and brings long-term benefits to the local area.”
A final planning decision is expected to be made later this year, but in the meantime, people can register to have their say via the planning inspectorate website: www.national-infrastructure-consenting.planninginspectorate.gov.uk/projects/EN010162
All submissions must be made before 23:59pm, on October 2, 2025.