Representation by Lorraine Thurston
- Date submitted
- 10 January 2023
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
I object to the Mallard Pass Solar Farm for the following reasons: The proposed development is across a swathe of agricultural land and is of unprecedented size in the UK. This development is removing productive agricultural land, further increasing the need for the UK to rely on imported foodstuffs. This is both expensive and environmentally damaging. The proposed area is larger than that of the nearest town of Stamford, and borders conservation areas. It is both out of character and out of proportion, dwarfing surrounding historic towns and villages. Having regularly walked the miles of clearly defined public footpaths in this area, I have seen that in addition to its natural beauty, this is an area of diverse agriculture which is already edged with wildflower hedgerows and meadowland. A perfect natural leisure opportunity and a biodiverse area teaming with wildlife. Mallard Pass have included mitigation and enhancement areas within their revised plan. There seem to be no published figures for the areas destroyed during construction and maintenance. It must be asked whether Mallard Pass are proposing to “give back” less than they have taken away. In the words of the Government: “The natural environment is one of the most important and effective solutions we have for capturing and sequestering carbon long-term. We will safeguard our cherished landscapes, restore habitats for wildlife in order to combat biodiversity loss and adapt to climate change… “ HM Government (2020). The Ten Point Plan for a Green Industrial Revolution. Available at https://assets.publishing.service.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/936567/10_POINT_PLAN_BOOKLET.pdf (Accessed 10/07/22)