Further solar farm proposals in the East Riding have emerged. ‘Humberhead Solar’, as the proposals have been dubbed, would be capable of producing 500MW across a number of sites in the region.
The proposals, brought forward by Island Green Power (IGP), would be expected to power approximately 115,000 homes. The proposals follow plans for another 500MW solar farm, near Beverley.
Humberhead Solar would be across four sites approximately 3km to the south-west of Market Weighton and 1km to the south-east of Pocklington. Each of the four sites would comprise of a series of sub-sites. The sites would be linked to each other and the existing National Grid Thornton Substation via underground cables.
The operational life for Humberhead Solar would be up to 60 years, after which it is said the land will be restored to its original use. During its operation, the land beneath and around the panels would be “suitable for grazing”, according to the proposals’ website.
The website adds: “Humberhead Solar will deliver significant ecological benefits through habitat creation and enhancement measures, along with good land management through operation.”
The proposals remain in the early stages with a public consultation expected in late 2026. Submission of an application is expected in August 2027.
Due to the scale of the plans, the scheme passes the threshold of a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project (NSIP). As a result, the decision to either approve or refuse the project would be made by the Secretary of State for the Department of Energy Security and Net Zero (DESNZ) not East Riding Of Yorkshire Council.
Speaking against the proposals, George McManus, spokesperson for ERASE (East Riding Against Solar Expansion), raised concerns about the East Riding’s countryside being “swamped” by solar farms. He added: “Concentrating so many large projects in such a small area will have enormous visual impact, whilst harming wildlife.”
By: Andrew Spence, LDRS
