WHY HERE?
We select our sites based on a number of different criteria:
Access to the National Grid
One of our first considerations when looking for a new site is local grid capacity and access.
The grid at Sweetbriar Farm has capacity to carry the electricity that our solar project would provide. We are currently working with Northern Powergrid to establish the best connection point.
Road Access
The current proposed access route is via the A160 and A1077 as shown in yellow on the map to the right. We will be discussing our access route with the County Council as part of our traffic management and monitoring work.
Local Topography
While solar panels do not need direct sunlight to produce electricity, they are most efficient when sited on flat or south-facing, shade free land.
The land at Sweetbriar Farm is relatively flat, allowing daylight hours to be maximised. There is minimal shade, but we will avoid placing solar panels in any shaded areas.
Biodiversity Opportunities
Solar Farms can create a safehaven for many native animals, including pollinators, small mammals, reptiles, birds and amphibians.
We’re delighted to have a corporate partnership with the RSPB and are supported by the Bumblebee Conservation Trust, Buglife, UK Wild Otter Trust, and The Barn Owl Trust. Working with these organisations really helps us to optimise the habitat opportunities for local wildlife.
Local Planning Constraints
We are in the process of investigating the planning constraints and opportunities at Sweetbriar Farm.
Our planning specialist, Arcus Consulting, conducting a series of reports and appraisals, including heritage, geophysical, glint and glare, visual, and ecology. We hope to be able to share the results of these with you soon.
Local Planning Designations
The North Lincolnshire Local Development Framework (2011) provides the policy context for this site:
“North Lincolnshire is in a unique position to be at the heart of the growing low carbon and green economy - a renewable energy capital”.
What happens next……
Subject to incorporating feedback from the local community we hope to submit our planning application in late Autumn 2021.
Contact us if you have any questions, or have your say via our survey.