As part of its community engagement, DRD will install free domestic solar panels for up to 80 local households and provide £100,000 to Bourne Town Council for community projects. These initiatives aim to deliver direct benefits to residents and support local development.
The Limes Farm Solar Park adds to DRD’s extensive 6GW portfolio of renewable energy projects across the UK, which includes a 40MW battery energy storage system (BESS) in the East Midlands, a 100MW BESS in the West Midlands, and a 49.9MW solar farm in Norfolk. The approval strengthens DRD’s commitment to expanding clean energy infrastructure.
Tony Gannon, Head of Downing Renewable Developments, expressed enthusiasm for the project, stating: “We were delighted to have received strong support from the local planning committee when determining our Limes Farm Solar project and in particular the weight they placed on the importance of farmers being able to choose to diversify income from their agricultural land. The development has been designed with the landscape, biodiversity, and community in mind. It helps to sustain an ongoing farming business, while contributing positively to the environment and energy security.”
The project is designed to balance environmental, agricultural, and community priorities. By integrating solar energy with ongoing farming, it supports sustainable land use while advancing renewable energy production. The community benefit package underscores DRD’s focus on fostering local support and delivering tangible advantages to the Bourne area.
Limes Farm Solar Park is expected to play a key role in meeting the UK’s renewable energy targets, enhancing energy security, and promoting environmental sustainability. DRD’s careful planning ensures minimal disruption to the local landscape while maximizing the project’s contribution to clean energy. The approval marks a significant step in DRD’s efforts to develop innovative and community-focused renewable energy solutions across the United Kingdom.
