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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Feedback from consultations has influenced the design of the project, such as the suggestion to use the land housing solar panels to graze sheep.<\/p>\n
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.<\/p>\n
Additionally, 21 new permissive footpaths are proposed, covering over 12 km, with six new permissive bridleways.<\/p>\n
Solar panels.<\/p>\n
Mark Noone, UK Project Director at Elements Green, said: \u201cHaving 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.<\/p>\n
\u201cThe 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.<\/p>\n
\u201cAs 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.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe 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.\u201d<\/p>\n