Mallard Pass Solar Farm: Plans pushed back by Secretary of State

The project has been called Mallard Pass as the site is close to where Mallard broke the world speed record for a steam locomotive in 1938

Plans for a solar farm that would be the biggest in the UK have been pushed back by the Secretary of State.

The 4.2 mile (6.76km) Mallard Pass Solar Farm, straddling the Lincolnshire and Rutland border, aims to power 92,000 homes over the next 30 years.

An original decision on the scheme was set for 16 May, but has now been set a new deadline of "no later" than 13 June.

The new deadline for the decision has been made to Parliament.

The solar farm is considered a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project due to the size and nature of the plans.

This means it will not be decided by the local authorities of South Kesteven District Council and Rutland County Council.

On the pushback, energy secretary Claire Coutinho said the decision was to "ensure there is sufficient time for the department to consider the application".

"I have decided to set a new deadline of no later than 13 June for deciding this application", said Ms Coutinho.

"The decision to set the new deadline for this application is without prejudice to the decision on whether to grant or refuse development consent."