Kilnside Energy Development

The meeting was held to discuss the proposed 2,500 acre solar development at Kilnside, where invitations were hand delivered only to selected households in close proximity to the development site, resulting in a modest turnout.

While attendance was limited, the session provided lively discussions as attendees voiced frustration over unanswered questions, particularly around future ownership the lack of clarity and guarantees on Aukera’s long-term responsibility. The absence of unresolved questions led to unease and distrust among many regarding the project's future, should it receive Government approval. 

The Workshop gave an opportunity for attendees to provide limited feedback into the plans, such as the inclusion of bridleways and cycle tracks. One of the most pressing concerns voiced by residents was the sheer scale of the proposed development, especially its unsettling proximity to the already approved Mallard Pass solar farm – which would have a massive cumulative effect on the region. If sanctioned, this would effectively encase the northern edge of Stamford in an unbroken expanse of reflective panels — a vast sea of glass stretching across approximately 4,500 acres of landscape, transforming the edges of the town’s rural character into something unrecognisable. 

Following recent boundary adjustments, one landowner has withdrawn a portion of land from the proposal due to existing covenants, making its inclusion commercially unfeasible. However, this has been offset by the addition of new land, primarily extending across the A1, ensuring the overall scope of the project remains robust.

With recent national media coverage highlighting ethical concerns around forced labour and solar panel manufacturing practices in China, questions about the origin of the panels remained unresolved. It was however confirmed by Aukera that the panels are likely to be sourced from China, with procurement determined through a tender process focused primarily on cost-efficiency — leaving many uneasy about the ethical implications of such sourcing.

Other important issues raised were around wildlife disruption, particularly regarding deer and protected badgers that currently inhabit the proposed site. The introduction of extensive fencing risks severing established tracks that these animals rely on for safe movement. This issue has already become evident at Coronation Wood near Clipsham, where fencing around approximately 600 acres has displaced local deer populations, forcing them into more dangerous areas — including nearby highways. The situation raises serious concerns about both animal welfare and public safety, especially given the site's close proximity to the already hazardous A1.

Attendees expressed deep frustration over the lack of transparency during the early stages of planning, with many feeling excluded from meaningful consultation. Concerns were also raised about the motivations behind the project, with a widespread perception that Aukera’s primary interest lies in generating profit for overseas investors — rather than protecting the integrity of Rutland’s cherished landscape and community values.

Despite the workshop highlighting significant mistrust in the room, due to many questions being left unanswered, it is part of the process and insights from this will help inform the next phase of planning, where there will be further engagement opportunities announced in the future to ensure wider community participation and input.

The local group Stop Stamford Solar City remain clear in their message and will continue to fight this proposed development. 

In a statement from the Group, they said we wish to ensure Rutland remains the affectionately called ‘mini Cotswolds’, as it is a county rich in charm and character, with rolling hills, peaceful farmland and historic market towns, it embodies the spirit of its motto — Multum in Parvo, “Much in Little.” But this treasured landscape now faces a dramatic shift. If approved, the proposed industrial sized solar development, which is far from Multum in Parvo - little, would cover vast areas in glass panels, threatening to overwhelm the natural beauty and rural tranquillity that make Rutland so special.

While Aukera presents Kilnside Energy Park as a clean energy solution, the proposal still raises serious concerns about its impact on the local landscape, food production and community autonomy.

Leasing land from private owners with no stake in the project’s design distances decision-making from those most affected. 

The promise of a community benefit fund remains vague, with no guarantees or specifics, and the consultation isn’t scheduled until 2026 — long after key decisions may be made. 

The removal of some land from the plan may reduce proximity to Mallard Pass, but it does NOT eliminate the cumulative environmental and visual impact of large-scale solar developments in the region.

Claims that solar farms like Kilnside pose no threat to food security are short-sighted and overlook the importance of preserving high-quality agricultural land and rural character. 

Recent reports suggest that by 2050, the UK could lose up to 23% of its farmland due to solar developments, urbanisation, competing land uses and climate change — a stark warning that makes such dismissive statements deeply concerning. In this context, every acre of productive land matters, and large-scale solar developments must be carefully weighed against long-term National food resilience and environmental stewardship. Even temporary developments can disrupt ecosystems, alter views and introduce surveillance infrastructure, despite assurances that CCTV will be inward-facing. 

While renewable energy is vital, it must be pursued in ways that respect local voices, protect valuable farmland and avoid industrialising the countryside under the guise of sustainability. 

The community deserves transparency, meaningful engagement, and alternatives that balance energy needs with environmental stewardship.

▪ The Kilnside Solar development is seeking planning for panels over a 60 year period — longer than most UK solar developments

▪ There will be a loss of rural character and scenic beauty

▪ Disruption to wildlife habitats and ecosystems

▪ This development adds to the risk undermining the UK's food security when protecting domestic food production is more important than ever.

▪ Visual impact on Stamford’s northern gateway - all fields will likely have high perimeter fencing and CCTV

▪ A precedent for unchecked industrialisation of the countryside

The expansion of solar developments in the countryside brings with it a host of concerns beyond land use and visual impact. More often the introduction of CCTV infrastructure is required for site security, adding further disruption to rural landscapes, with poles, cameras and signage intruding on areas of natural beauty and heritage value. In rural regions, such surveillance can feel excessive, capturing footage of private property and more importantly individuals without consent, and can erode community trust. 

These CCTV systems also raise complex legal and ethical questions around data protection, ownership and accountability. When combined with the loss of agricultural land, threats to biodiversity and the strain on local character, such developments demand far more scrutiny and a balanced approach that protects both our environment and our rural way of life.