'It’s important we take a stand' - Councils join forces to challenge vast solar farm approval through the courts

Earlier this month, the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero approved plans for Springwell Solar Farm near Scopwick. Covering about 1,280 hectares of land, the site would be the UK’s largest solar farm.

During the planning process, Lincolnshire County Council and North Kesteven District Council argued strongly against the development, citing that the application did not properly assess the impacts on rural villages and landscapes, or adequately take into account the cumulative impact of developments in Lincolnshire.

These, the authorities say, ‘continue to use large amounts of the best and most versatile agricultural land – of which there is limited in the country’.

Having carefully reviewed the Examining Authority’s report and Secretary of State’s decision letter, the councils say they are concerned that the proper process was not followed and are now seeking to challenge the decision legally.

Coun Sean Matthews, leader of Lincolnshire County Council leader, said: “Following legal advice and a careful consideration of the potential costs and impact, we believe we may have grounds to challenge this decision.

“With Lincolnshire bearing the brunt of NSIP (Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects) applications, it’s important we take a stand, and use the appropriate means to try and stop these developments where possible. If the courts agree that we have grounds to challenge, we’d be in a position to launch a judicial review into this decision.”

Coun Richard Wright, leader of North Kesteven District Council, also raised concerns, saying that: “In any planning decision, weighing and balancing competing issues is fundamental to coming to a decision. In this case, it appears that because of process and procedural flaws, the wrong weight has been applied leading to a decision that is arguably unsound.”