May 2, 2023 9.00 pm This story is over 11 months old

Residents to have their say on proposed 600MW energy park near Sleaford

Powering more than 190,000 homes
The development could help power around 190,000 homes | Photo: Low Carbon
By Local Democracy Reporter

Residents around Sleaford have been invited to have their say on the proposed Beacon Fen Energy Park which could help power 190,000 homes.

Developers Low Carbon are hosting a series of in-person events and webinars to gather initial feedback from local communities on their 600MW development.

If approved, it would be situated between the villages of Heckington and Helpringham and reduce annual CO2 emissions by 120,000 tonnes.

Due to its size, it has been considered a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project and so won’t be determined by North Kesteven District Council, although they will also be given an opportunity to comment on the plans

Instead, the proposal will be submitted to the government’s Planning Inspectorate once details are finalised.

James Hartley-Bond, Director of developer Low Carbon, said: “Speaking directly with local communities and stakeholders will be a core part of our approach throughout the development of Beacon Fen Energy Park and we want to hear directly from them about their thoughts on the proposals.

“Local people hold essential information which will feed directly into the project and we look forward to hearing their views first-hand.”

As part of the early consultation, in-person events are being held at:

  • Heckington Village Hall, on Thursday, May 18 from 2pm to 7pm
  • Helpringham Memorial Hall, on Saturday, May 20 from 12pm to 5pm
  • Ruby Hunt Centre in Donington, on Friday, June 9 from 2pm to 7pm

Two online webinar events have also been organised for:

  • Tuesday, May 23 from 6.30pm to 8pm
  • Wednesday, June 14 from 6.30pm to 8pm

A number of similar developments are being planned across Lincolnshire in a bid to help the Government meet its Net Zero targets.

| Photo: Adobe Stock

Mr Hartley-Bond added: “The UK Government has made clear its plans for the country to reach Net Zero by 2050. Its aim is to increase the nation’s solar capacity fivefold by 2035.

“If given permission, Beacon Fen Energy Park will be a significant step forward towards reaching this vital goal and securing energy for the country.

“We invite all members of the local community to take part in our early (non-statutory) consultation, where our team will be on hand to meet with residents to provide them with the latest updates on the project and answer any questions they have.

“By taking part in the events they will have the opportunity to shape this unique project, which could power in excess of 190,000 homes.”

Those wishing to attend the webinars can register via the link here from May 15. No registration is needed for the in-person events.

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