Along with the MP for West Suffolk,Matt Hancock, I have submitted a joint response to Sunnica’s statutory consultation setting out our opposition to their proposals to build by far the largest solar farm in the UK, stretching across a number of villages in East Cambridgeshire and West Suffolk and situated in close proximity to my constituents in Isleham, Chippenham, Snailwell and Kennett. I do not believe the scale of Sunnica’s proposals are appropriate and I am concerned that the developer is not taking the legitimate concerns of residents into account ahead of submitting its plans to the Planning Inspectorate for further review. I would though continue to urge constituents to respond to their ongoing consultation which is due to close on Friday, 18th December. This can be accessed here: https://sunnica.co.uk/
I recognise the import role solar power will play as part of a diverse energy system and I am proud of the significant contribution solar farms across my constituency, such as those in Soham, Burwell, Stretham, Fordham and Great Wilbraham play in helping the UK achieve its ambitious net zero emissions targets. However, I am concerned that this project as proposed would lead to the loss of vast swathes of agricultural land and open countryside, enjoyed by residents and visitors to the area. I therefore oppose the proposals as set out by Sunnica in their statutory consultation.
