Court challenge to UK's largest solar farm plan

Two councils have officially launched a claim for a judicial review by the High Court over the government's decision to approve plans for the UK's largest solar farm.

The Department for Energy Security and Net Zero approved Springwell Solar Farm, between Lincoln and Sleaford, in April, with ministers saying it would help "bring down bills for good".

Developer EDF said it would cover an area the size of 1,700 football pitches – 1,280 hectares – and incorporate a battery storage facility, providing power for 180,000 homes.

Councillor Sean Matthews, leader of Lincolnshire County Council, said approaching the High Court marked an "important milestone" towards securing a judicial review.

Judicial reviews are court proceedings which look into the lawfulness of a decision or action made by a public body, the Courts and Tribunals Judiciary says.

The development, on land near the village of Navenby, was approved by the Planning Inspectorate following a public inquiry.

On Thursday, the government said consenting to Springwell Solar Farm was a reflection of "growing government investment in solar power to deliver clean energy and help lower bills".

Energy Secretary Ed Miliband said: "As we face a second fossil fuel crisis in five years, Britain is taking back control of their energy by generating more clean power than ever before.

"Record-breaking solar growth means greater energy security, lower exposure to volatile fossil fuel markets which we can't control."

However, Lincolnshire County Council said its officers, as well as those from North Kesteven District Council, had strongly argued against the Springwell Solar Farm development.

Issues that were cited include the impact on rural villages and landscapes.

Matthews said: "As this now progresses to a live legal issue, we'll not be offering a running commentary on proceedings but will instead be fully focused on supporting our legal team so that we have the best opportunity for a positive outcome in this case."

Councillor Richard Wright, leader of North Kesteven District Council, said: "It is our view, from reading the Secretary of State's published decision, that decisions and comments had been made that are contrary to what we believe to be sound decision-making."

He added that any legal action would "come at a cost, which we will share", but said "to not take this action was not considered to be in the interests of our residents".

A spokesperson for Springwell Solar Farm said: "We are disappointed that parties are legally challenging the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero's decision to grant development consent for Springwell Solar Farm.

"This is a legal process reviewing how the decision was made, rather than weighing up the merits of the project itself. We remain confident in the robustness of the planning process that led to consent being granted.

"Springwell Solar Farm would make an important contribution to the UK's domestic supply of clean, secure energy and we will continue to engage constructively in the legal process where required."

The government said it could not comment on specific matters related to the project as it had become a live planning case.

A judge will consider the councils' claim for a judicial review and decide whether it should proceed to a full hearing.

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