Villagers in Newark Express Outrage Over 7,000-Acre Solar Park Proposal
Plans for one of Europe’s largest solar farms, spanning 7,000 acres in rural Nottinghamshire, have stirred strong opposition from villagers and farmers in Newark. The proposed Great North Road solar park (GNR) by Elements Green faces backlash, with concerns raised about its impact on food security and the rural landscape.
Village Outcry and Opposition
Newark residents and farmers are up in arms over the “monstrous” project, expressing fears that the solar park could jeopardize food security and alter the picturesque rural scenery. Parish councillors describe themselves as “shell-shocked” by the proposal.
Political Stand and Local Concerns
Local Tory MP Robert Jenrick vows to oppose the application unless radically changed, stating it could impact future generations. Elements Green contends that the solar farm will create wetlands and generate local jobs, countering claims that solar farms threaten food security.
Solar Farm Details and Scale
The GNR proposal, still in its early stages, aims to generate one gigawatt of solar energy, sufficient to power approximately 400,000 homes. Initial maps indicate the installation of 1.5 million solar panels across 4,000 acres, with the remaining 3,000 acres allocated for underground cabling and biodiversity enhancement, including 50,000 tree plantings.
Local Concerns and Developer’s Response
Some locals express worries about their homes being encircled by solar panels, while others fear a negative impact on tourism due to obstructed views. Elements Green reassures that the solar farm, though expansive, will be composed of carefully planned “little islands” rather than a single large chunk.
As the controversy unfolds, the Elements Green project director, Mark Noone, highlights the potential contribution of the scheme to the government’s 2035 solar PV target, emphasizing its positive aspects amid growing opposition.
Source：dailymail.co.uk
