UK's first Grey Belt solar project acquires planning approval

Burcot Solar Farm, a 49.9 MW PV project in the UK, has received planning approval after an appeal, overcoming objections related to land classification. The project, expected to power 19,000 homes, was opposed due to its designation as 100% best and most versatile agricultural land. Pegasus Group, a UK planning consultancy, and No5 Chambers, a Birmingham-based legal firm, led the appeal. The Local Planning Authority withdrew its objection after Pegasus Group argued updated national policies supersede older land use rules. The Planning Inspector ruled the site was suitable for Green Belt land without requiring additional openness assessments. Ethical Power, a UK renewable energy developer, was found to have adequately considered alternative locations, making further site selection tests unnecessary. As per the decision, this approval sets a precedent for future Grey Belt solar projects under evolving UK planning regulations.