Planning Inspectors Conclude Review of Lime Down Solar Park

Planning inspectors have concluded a six-month examination of the proposed Lime Down Solar Park, one of the largest solar projects in Britain. The independent Examining Authority will now review the evidence and submit a recommendation to the Secretary of State for Energy Security and Net Zero by January 22, 2027. A final decision on the Development Consent Order is expected in spring 2027 at the earliest.

Developed by Island Green Power through Lime Down Solar Park Limited, the project proposes five solar sites north of the M4 in Wiltshire. The development would include a 1,000MWh battery storage system and export up to 500MW of electricity, enough to power approximately 115,000 homes. Electricity would be carried via underground cable to an existing grid connection in Melksham.

The proposal has faced significant opposition, including nearly 5,000 objections and criticism regarding the loss of agricultural land. While Island Green Power maintains the plans were thoroughly scrutinized, the Stop Lime Down campaign asserts it has presented a compelling case against the project's scale and location.