20MW solar farm at Land South Of Easton Lane Glevering Park House Glevering Estate Wickham Market

What was proposed

The application sought a 20-megawatt solar farm with panels, grid connection infrastructure, fencing, CCTV and landscaping for 42 years.

“This planning application seeks permission to erect a 20-megawatt (MW) output solar photovoltaic (PV) installation (hereafter referred to as a “solar farm”), alongside associated infrastructure required to enable grid export of the power generated by the development.”

“The solar farm is to directly adjoin the local power distribution network at an agreed grid connection point approximately 250 metres west of the primary site area. The connection would be achieved via a buried cable running from the solar installation to the connection point along the margin of an adjacent field parcel and is included within the red line boundary. It would not encroach onto any public highway or third-party land.”

Officer report

Earlier planning history

A previous 25-megawatt solar farm nearby was refused and its appeal dismissed, while a later reservoir earthworks proposal required prior approval.

“In December 2021, the LPA determined that prior approval would be required for a balanced cut and fill earth moving operation to construct a reservoir using the clay beneath the site (ref: DC/21/5200/AGO).”

“In February 2013, planning permission was refused on land to the north of Easton Lane for the construction of a 25MW solar farm including transformer housings, security fencing and cameras, landscaping and other associated works.”

Officer report

Officers’ recommendation

The application was recommended for approval subject to conditions, with renewable energy benefits weighed against identified environmental and amenity effects.

“The Principal Planner showed the Planning Balance table and concluded that the application was recommended for approval subject to conditions.”

Minutes

Public views

Of 107 third-party representations, 101 objected and six supported the proposal, with concerns including farmland, traffic, landscape, flooding, heritage, ecology and bats.

“As of 3 July 2026, The LPA has received a total of 107 third party representations of which 101 object and six support the proposed development. The comments have been categorised into key themes and summarised below. All comments received have been considered by officers and have been taken into account in the planning assessment and recommendation to members.”

“Cumulative Impact – Concerns regarding the impact of several major energy projects within the vicinity of the site, including Sizewell C and other solar farms.”

Officer report

Who spoke

An objector, a representative of Easton Parish Council and the applicant’s agent addressed members on ecology, woodland, evidence, grid connection, mitigation and benefits.

The vote and decision

Councillors unanimously approved the application subject to conditions, including a three-year implementation period and compliance with approved plans.

“That the planning application was approved subject to the following conditions:”

“Conditions List 1. Three-year implementation period. 2. Approved plans.”

Minutes