Representation by Maureen Edna Plant
- Date submitted
- 1 March 2023
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
I am married to a farmer, who is now retired. We moved to our Grade II listed house in 1970. Both house and farmland are situated on the southern tip of the proposed Mallard Pass Solar Farm. My main objection to Mallard Pass Solar Farm is the fact that many acres of productive farmland will be taken out of production. The February 2023 edition of the NFU’s farming magazine ”Countryside” contains an article, in which it states, quote “the UK is only around 60% self-sufficient in food, a drop from around 80% in the 1980’s”. It seems to me, that in the present circumstances (eg war in Ukraine), it would be more sensible to try to increase our production of food, rather than decrease it. Through my local knowledge of the land in question, I feel strongly it would be put to better use producing food, rather than solar power. Due to the favourable conditions of climate and soil, the county of Lincolnshire is renowned for its arable farming and, at present, produces one eighth of the UK’s food. I am also concerned about the loss of wild life habitats (which we have always endeavoured to enhance) in the area. I am particularly concerned about the effect of glare from the solar panels on the many species of birds. There are numerous historic houses, farmsteads and villages constructed of local stone and slate in the area. A solar farm of the proposed size would completely alter the character of this attractive, historic landscape. It is our experience that, from time to time, winds can be extremely strong here. We have on several occasions experienced considerable damage to property and trees. Is it known whether the solar panels will be able to withstand such gales? The proposed solar farm is said to have a life-span of 40 years. As far as I am aware, we have not been told what will happen to the solar panels and associated equipment after this time. Disposal of the panels together with associated equipment and fittings etc, is also a concern.