Decision on massive new solar farm on Suffolk - Cambridgeshire border delayed AGAIN
The government has decided to put back its decision on the Sunnica application once again
Last updated 7th Dec 2023
A decision on whether a massive new solar farm on the border between Suffolk between Cambridgeshire can be built has been delayed again.
The government had been due to decide on the Sunnica application to build the site, thought to be one of the biggest in Europe, today.
It would cover around 2,500 acres on various sites around Newmarket, including close to Iseham, Freckenham, Barton Mills and Snailwell.
Communities in both West Suffolk and East Cambridgeshire were left fearful of the potential impact of the project on the landscape, as well as local farmland.
The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero now says a new date will be set for the decision 'as soon as possible'.
It's the second time the decision's been delayed.
Commenting on the announcement, the MP for West Suffolk, Matt Hancock said: "This decision shouldn't have been delayed - it should have been rejected, and the huge worry for local residents finally put to rest.
"I am a strong supporter of solar energy. Many solar farm projects, when appropriately located and with community support, contribute positively to our energy landscape.
"However, the Sunnica development is in completely the wrong location. It will turn our beautiful Suffolk villages into industrial zones.
"Worse, the battery storage outside local villages is dangerous and no assurances have been given about how a catastrophic fire would be dealt with to protect people.
"Sunnica's current proposal is not only dangerous but it's undermining support for renewables, and it needs to go back to the drawing board.