A solar farm proposed for the Rutland-Stamford border is set to take place this week.

As the South Kesteven District Council prepares for an Extraordinary Planning Meeting this week, the contentious Mallard Pass Solar Farm proposal is set to take centre stage.

South Kesteven District Council is gearing up for a crucial discussion on the contentious Mallard Pass Solar Farm proposal in an Extraordinary Planning Meeting at 10am, Thursday 15 June.

The proposed solar farm, stretching 4.2 miles along the Stamford and Rutland border, has ignited a fierce debate among local stakeholders.

Developers of the Mallard Pass Solar Farm assert that the project could power 92,000 homes over the next 30 years.

However, this ambitious plan faces significant opposition. Detractors argue that the development could disrupt local wildlife habitats, consume valuable agricultural land, and drastically alter the local landscape.

Council members themselves have shown a divide on the issue.

While some voice concerns about the loss of agricultural land and potential impacts on food security, others argue that the urgency of the climate crisis necessitates a shift towards renewable energy sources, even if it means making tough decisions.

The farm could power 92,000 homes. Image credit: LDRS.

The council's response to the Mallard Pass proposal has underscored both the potential benefits of the solar farm, such as its capacity to generate renewable energy for thousands of homes, and the concerns raised about its environmental impact.

The council has called for more information on the landscape, visual, and agricultural impact of the project.

An Environmental Statement review has also highlighted concerns about the potential effects on local wildlife, particularly bats and birds, and the need for effective mitigation measures.

Officers stated in their report: "SKDC has declared a climate emergency recognising a commitment to contribute to the global efforts to tackle climate change.

"Renewable Energy proposals are supported by national and local policy.

"However, there are a number of potential adverse effects that need to be balanced against the benefits of such schemes."

The final decision on the Mallard Pass Solar Farm proposal will not be made by the South Kesteven District Council.

As the project is classified as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP) due to its proposed generating capacity exceeding 50 MW, the decision lies with the Planning Inspectorate.

The Mallard Pass Solar Farm is one of several solar farm projects currently under consideration in Lincolnshire, a region that could potentially power over 637,000 homes with solar energy.

However, these projects have sparked controversy due to concerns about their impact on farmland and rural landscapes.

Find out more about the proposal here.