The Melton Borough Council Planning Committee met on Thursday 15 October 2026. The committee discussed an application for the construction and operation of a 45-megawatt solar photovoltaic farm near Brentingby. During the meeting, Councillor Alan Thwaites proposed a deferral of the decision to allow for a redesign of the compound and solar panel placement to lessen their impact on the adjacent village. This motion was seconded by Councillor Elaine Holmes. The committee voted on this proposal, with three votes in favour, one against, and one abstention. Following this vote, the committee decided to defer the decision on the application. The summary notes that due to new delegation rules coming into effect at the end of October, it is likely the application will be decided by officers rather than the committee.

Solar Farm Application near Brentingby Deferred

The committee considered a proposal for a 45-megawatt solar photovoltaic farm on land north of Brentingby. The application had been recommended for approval by officers. Concerns were raised by local residents, the Parish Council, and the ward member regarding the industrialisation of the countryside, impact on heritage assets, landscape character, and residential amenity.

During the debate, Councillor Alan Thwaites proposed a deferral of the decision to allow for a redesign of the compound and solar panel placement to lessen their impact on the adjacent village. Councillor Elaine Holmes seconded this motion. Councillor Thwaites argued that while the benefits of renewable energy were acknowledged, the harm to the local community and landscape needed to be minimised.

The committee heard from various speakers, including representatives from Freeby Parish Council and residents, who highlighted issues such as visual impact on listed buildings, the cumulative effect of multiple solar proposals, and potential noise and flooding. The applicant's representatives addressed concerns about employment, land drainage, and the substation location.

A key point of discussion involved the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) and its strong favour for renewable energy developments. Ultimately, Councillor Thwaites' proposal for deferral was passed by a vote of three to one, with one abstention. This means the application will not be determined by the committee at this meeting and is likely to be decided by officers under new delegation rules coming into effect at the end of October.