At the recent Westminster Hall Debate on Solar Farms on Agricultural Land, Richard asked the Industry Minister for confirmation that government guidance remains that use of BMV (best and most versatile agricultural land), should be avoided as much as possible in the siting of solar farms.
Richard Fuller MP said:
This issue is particularly pertinent in the case of East Park Energy's 1,900 acre proposed solar farm in the north east of my constituency which if approved, will cover 74% BMV agricultural land.
I didn't feel that the Minister gave a direct response to my question in the debate, so I have followed up with a letter to the Secretary of State, Ed Miliband, requesting that he clarifies the following:
- Is BMV land use still a criterion in the assessment of solar projects?
- Has there been any change in the weighting of the criteria of BMV land in the decision process for solar farm development approvals?
The letter to Ed Miliband, can be read here. Richard's question in the debate can be watched here.
Richard also met up with members of the Stop East Park Energy group recently.
Speaking afterwards he said:
We had a good discussion around how we keep highlighting to the government that this project is not critical to the country's renewable energy needs and that furthermore, the fact that 74% of the land it will cover is designated as 'best and most versatile', (BMV) agricultural land should discount its viability on the grounds of maintaining food production and security.
I will be joining a meeting of Stop East Park Energy and affected Parish Councils next week to continue to raise awareness of the flaws in this proposal and provide a voice in Parliament for local residents.
