Councillor insists solar farm is not guaranteed approval

The potential facility would occupy roughly 1,200 hectares of fields across Northamptonshire

A councillor has assured members that plans for a large-scale solar farm will not receive automatic approval.

The 500MW project, proposed by Island Green Power, would cover around 1,200 hectares across nine sites in Northamptonshire including Lavendon, Bozeat, Easton Maudit, and Earls Barton.

Due to its size, North Northamptonshire Council will not have the final say, with the secretary of state making the final decision.

David Brackenbury, the local authority's lead for growth and regeneration, told members the outcome was "not a slam dunk."

'Miles of solar panels'

Developers claim the facility could power over 115,000 homes and have a 60-year lifespan.

However, councillors raised concerns about the environmental impact.

Councillor Jim Hakewill said: "Most people oppose covering farmland with solar panels when warehouses and buildings could be used instead."

Councillor Dorothy Maxwell called the development a "blot" on the landscape, adding: "We're not talking about a few fields but miles of solar panels."

Developers have indicated they intend to submit pre-application plans as early as February.

A public consultation ran late last year, and Island Green Power said it was now reviewing feedback.

Mr Brackenbury added: "It's extremely important that North Northamptonshire and the other authorities involved are fully represented at all stages."

The Local Democracy Reporting Service understands the secretary of state is expected to make a decision by late 2026.