The representation period for the Mallard Pass Solar Farm proposal has been extended following a takeover by the Planning Inspectorate, who took over the application due to it being "too large" for Rutland County Council to assess.

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The Planning Inspectorate will assess plans for the 2,175 acre solar farm proposed for land in Rutland and Lincolnshire (South West). 

Mallard Pass is proposed for a fertile collection of fields stretching just north of Stamford and across Eastern Rutland, around the villages of Essendine, Carlby, Braceborough, Casewick, Belmesthorpe and Ryhall. If passed, this will be the largest solar farm in the UK. 

The companies behind Mallard Pass Solar Farm have submitted their planning application to the Planning Inspectorate almost a year after initially proposing the build, and have now announced that the representation period will be extended to ensure that local residents can share their opinions on the proposal.

Rutland and Stamford MP Alicia Kearns, who has been very vocal in her opposition of the build, requested the extension of the representation period.

Ms Kearns said: "I welcome the news that Canadian Solar, the developers behind the 2,238 acres Mallard Pass Solar Plant, have accepted my request to extend the length of time for people to make their representations to the planning inspectorate.

"Last month I wrote to Canadian Solar to ask that they allow a fairer amount of time for people to make their formal representations. Twenty-eight days over the festive period was not long enough for people to digest any changes to the proposal and make representations and I am pleased that this period has now been doubled as a result.

"Please do keep an eye out for when the period of representations opens in the New Year and make your voice heard!"

Image courtesy of Alicia Kearns.

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