A solar farm project on a 75-acre site at Tempsford has been put on hold by the developer to await a decision on government plans for the local area.
Although no formal application was made for land east of Tempsford Hall in Station Road, correspondence took place between agents of Kier Property Management Company Limited and Central Bedfordshire Council’s planning department.
The construction company’s proposed development involved installing solar panels, with battery storage, an electric vehicle (EV) charging facility and other infrastructure.
A screening report for Tempsford renewable energy park compiled by the Pegasus Group on behalf of Kier Property said: “This site is parkland, irregular in shape, and mainly one pastoral field lined with hedgerows and mature trees.
“A private access off Tempsford Road to Tempsford Hall and Lysander House runs across the area, which is set in a semi-rural landscape. Beyond it lies largely open countryside of arable and pastoral farmland, with sporadic small villages and farmsteads.
“It’s surrounded by more parkland, agricultural fields and pockets of woodland. This land is well screened by trees and hedgerows. Access into the site is anticipated to be taken via the current route from Tempsford Road, located next to the southern boundary.
“One access point will be required for the main part of the site (the solar farm) and a new turning lane off the primary access for the EV station. If a new access is required off Tempsford Road, the current private route to Tempsford Hall will remain.
“The necessary visibility splays to build and operate an Eco-Hub would be provided. There are no public rights of way routed through the site boundary, while the application area isn’t located within any statutory designated land for nature conservation.”
In a social media post, CBC council leader and Independent Potton cllr Adam Zerny explained: “This site is in fields around a current local solar farm.
“It’s the land around Tempsford Hall, which used to be Kier’s headquarters before it switched to Manchester in 2020. The proposals are about the same area as 42 football pitches.”
Project paused
A company statement said this week: “After careful review and consideration, Kier Property has decided to pause further development of proposals for the Tempsford renewable energy park for now.
“In light of the government’s decision to include Tempsford on the list of preferred new town areas, the firm would like to give greater consideration to the site’s future potential.
“While the project isn’t being actively pursued at present, Kier Property is grateful for feedback and constructive engagement during the public consultation period held last year.
“The company remains committed to exploring opportunities for the site around Tempsford Hall and looks forward to further engagement about its future in due course.”
Cllr Zerny added on Facebook: “CBC was being asked for what’s known as a screening opinion.
“This means the council has to decide whether the applicant would have to submit an environmental impact assessment (EIA) if there’s a subsequent planning application.
“CBC planning officers hadn’t yet given a decision by the time the company made its statement this week.”
By Euan Duncan
Local Democracy Report
