Appeal hearing into major solar farm set to begin

A public inquiry is set to get under way following the rejection of plans for a major solar farm in Northamptonshire.

The proposed facility would cover 145 acres (59 hectares) alongside the A14 near Thrapston.

North Northamptonshire Council turned down the plans in October 2024, against the advice of its planning officers.

Following an appeal from the developer, the Planning Inspectorate will now hold a public inquiry over two days, starting on Tuesday.

The proposed site of Wood Lodge Solar Farm would span 145 acres (59 hectares) near the A14 at Thrapston.

The applicant said the development was designed to generate enough power for up to 15,000 homes.

Wood Lodge Solar Project Limited also claims it will deliver green energy that saves 21,500 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions compared to fossil fuels.

It has said the proposed site is the "lowest grade land within reach of the grid connection point" and the project "represents a forward-thinking solution that supports the country's transition to renewable energy".

Campaign group Staunch is opposed to the plans and is fighting the appeal as a Rule 6 party, which is when a group other than the appellant and local authority has permission to take an active part and provide evidence.

Kevin Shapland, group chair, said: "In principle, Staunch are in favour of renewable energy and recognise its importance.

"However, solar farm developments should not be taking place on good agricultural land which is so vital in securing the future needs of our country."

Planning officers had advised the council to approve the project, arguing the renewable energy benefits outweighed potential harms.

However, the council's planning committee voted against the proposal in October after hearing from residents and campaigners who claimed the solar farm would dominate the countryside and consume valuable farmland.

In February, North Northamptonshire Council said it would not be defending its decision at the inquiry.

Jason Smithers, then council leader, said at the time: "The planning inspector will hear all views, evidence and facts before making a decision.

"The council will support and co-operate fully with the Planning Inspectorate, including working on a statement of common ground which will establish those matters which are agreed with the main parties, and which will assist the planning inspector in their decision."

The hearing is due to begin on Tuesday at the council chamber of North Northamptonshire Council in Thrapston.

It is expected to last two days and will hear from the appellant and interested parties.

The planning inspector's verdict will be released on an unspecified date following the hearing.

Follow Northamptonshire news on BBC Sounds, Facebook, Instagram and X.