Large Solar Farms

Debate between Amanda Solloway and Matt Hancock

Tuesday 21st March 2023 Commons Chamber

[Amanda Solloway]

I thank my right hon. Friend for his intervention; I have taken note of it and will report it back to the relevant Minister.

For NSIP projects, communities can participate in the formal examination process run by the Planning Inspectorate. That gives communities the opportunity to make their views known on and influence projects before decisions are taken.

All large solar developers must complete an environmental statement for any application—

[Matt Hancock]

Before the Minister moves on, will she give way?

[Amanda Solloway]

Of course.

[Matt Hancock]

I am grateful. Does that mean that if a solar farm project is not well designed, it will not be passed? The Sunnica proposal in my West Suffolk constituency is very badly designed. It looks completely nuts from first principles because it is all over the place and around these villages. It damages the amenity of Newmarket and its globally significant racing industry. Nobody could argue that it is well designed, so will she confirm that that should be at the forefront of the Minister’s mind when the statutory decision is taken?

[Amanda Solloway]

I thank my right hon. Friend for the question. He will understand that I do not know the “nuts” project that he is talking about, but again, I will pass that on to the relevant Minister.

All large solar developments must complete an environmental statement, as I was saying. Decision makers will consider a range of factors, such as whether the project proposal allows for continued agricultural use where relevant or encourages biodiversity improvements around the proposed site. Solar farms are temporary in nature and most solar panel components and equipment can be recycled.