Windel Energy and Canadian Solar submit Mallard Pass plans to Government's planning inspectorate

Plans for the UK’s biggest solar farm have been submitted to the Government.

Mallard Pass is the first national infrastructure project in the area since Rutland Water was built and will be decided by the Government's planning inspectorate.

People have so far been able to share their views with those behind the Mallard Pass solar energy scheme, which, if granted, would straddle the Rutland-Lincolnshire border.

If approved, Windel Energy and Canadian Solar’s proposal would measure 463 hectares - the equivalent of 865 football pitches, spanning out from Essendine towards Ryhall, Uffington, Stamford, Pickworth and Carlby.

While the applicants say the scheme could provide energy for 92,000 homes over the next 30 to 40 years, those opposing it are concerned about the effect on farming, wildlife habitats, noise and views.

The planning inspectorate has until December 22 to review the application and decide whether to accept it.

If this happens people will then be able to share their views with the planning inspectorate directly, before it submits its recommendation to MP Grant Shapps, secretary of state for business, energy and industrial strategy.

Sue Holloway from Mallard Pass Action Group, which opposes the solar application by Windel Energy Ltd and Canadian Solar, said to stand a chance against them they will need to employ legal and planning experts capable of articulating their arguments during the examination process.

MP for Rutland Alicia Kearns shared her strong views on the 'unacceptable' application last week.

Sarah Price, spokesperson for Mallard Pass Solar Farm Ltd, said: “We take any consultation process and the responses seriously.

"We are looking into whether we can extend the forthcoming consultation to give respondents longer to consider the plans and to submit any responses, and we will confirm this as soon as we can.”

How do you feel about the plans? Email smeditor@stamfordmercury.co.uk