Residents to have their say on solar farm plans

Residents living near a proposed solar farm are being given the opportunity to voice their opinions about the project. The Tillbridge Solar project, if approved, would be the largest solar farm ever built in the area, covering approximately 3,000 acres of land. This vast area is located close to the village of Glentworth, which lies between Gainsborough and Caenby Corner in Lincolnshire. The developers of the project claim that it could generate over 50 megawatts of clean, renewable energy, enough to power around 300,000 homes. Local councillors have expressed their astonishment at the size of the proposed solar farm, stating that it is hard to comprehend. In January, a series of public meetings will be held to gather feedback from the community regarding the solar farm plans. These meetings are crucial as they provide a platform for residents to discuss their thoughts, concerns, and questions with the developers, Tribus Clean Energy and Recurrent Energy. The meetings will take place at the Lincolnshire Showground, and for those unable to attend in person, there will be an option to join online. The government will ultimately decide whether the solar farm can be built, with the Planning Inspectorate reviewing the evidence and making a recommendation. The final decision will rest with the Secretary of State for Energy, Ed Miliband. The developers argue that solar farms are essential for producing clean energy as the country strives to achieve Net Zero, a target aimed at reducing carbon emissions. However, some local leaders in Lincolnshire have raised concerns that solar farm developments are being disproportionately concentrated in their region. In fact, the government has already approved two other significant solar farms in Lincolnshire in 2024, located in West Lindsey and South Kesteven. The upcoming public meetings will allow residents to learn more about the project and express their views. The full agenda for these meetings can be accessed on the Planning Inspectorate's website. It is vital for community members to participate in these discussions, as their input can influence the outcome of the project. The developers are eager to hear from the residents and address any concerns they may have. Solar energy is a clean and sustainable power source, and projects like the Tillbridge Solar farm can help reduce our dependence on fossil fuels. By embracing solar energy, we can contribute to a healthier environment and a more sustainable future for generations to come.