The proposed Kingsway Solar Farm, could cover 1,500 hectares of land, making it one of the biggest solar farms in Europe. With the project still in the pre-application stage, discussions are heating up over its potential impact on the region.
The solar farm is expected to generate around 500 megawatts of electricity, enough to power approximately 175,000 homes. It will be situated southeast of Cambridge, affecting areas including Balsham, West Wratting, Weston Colville, and Weston Green. The solar farm will connect to the Burwell substation via suspended cables carried by pylons.
Because of its size and national significance, the project has been designated as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP). This classification means that instead of local councils making the final decision, the Secretary of State will determine its fate.
The Kingsway Solar Farm is still in its early stages, with a formal application expected later this year. The county council has agreed to delegate some decision-making authority to officers to submit responses quickly during the examination process. However, these responses will be made in consultation with the committee’s chair and vice-chair to ensure community concerns are considered.
