In a farewell email to supporters, Rutland Solar Action Group solemnly announced they will be disbanding as the solar farm they were protesting is agreed to go ahead. 

In their final statement, the group leaders said: "As we have always said, solar should be on roofs, not farmland, and form part of an integrated, well planned and properly regulated national energy strategy. 

"However, the change of Government bought about a new situation and rushed decisions that will have far reaching consequences. Despite our best efforts to oppose this development, it seems clear it will now proceed. 

"For the dedicated team who worked so hard to represent many local residents' views – and those who supported us from afar – a heartfelt thanks." 

Rutland County Council's planning committee approved plans for the new solar farm on Rutland green field in December, following a large public response against the site.  

The site will cover over 220 acres of farm land and green field land (Photo: Rutland County Council)

The planning authority received over 200 letters of objection to the plans. This was noted by Councillor for Martinsthorpe ward Andrew Johnson (Lib Dem), who said: "This is a very large and contentious application, and it has generated something in the region of 220 objections, which is enormous, so the public feeling on this is very high." 

The solar farm, which will cover 220 acres of farmland and be seen for thousands of acres beyond that, has been highly controversial among local people. 

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Despite this, Rutland County Council approved the plans with seven members voting in favour and only two against.