Overview

• The 700MW Tillbridge project near Gainsborough is set to become the country’s largest solar farm and is expected to supply power for about 300,000 homes.
• Designated a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project, the scheme was approved by central government and comes as Labour tallies 17 major clean‑energy approvals since taking office.
• The Planning Inspectorate reported the loss of about 1,200 hectares of farmland, including 111 hectares of the highest grade, while judging the national land‑use impact limited and noting potential biodiversity gains.
• Inspectors and MPs flagged forced‑labour risks in parts of the solar supply chain, with reporting linking backer Canadian Solar to allegations it denies, while suppliers have not been named and developers pledged compliance with modern slavery laws; GB Energy’s involvement has not been confirmed and would be restricted by the Modern Slavery Act.
• Political opposition has intensified in Lincolnshire, with Conservative and Reform UK figures criticizing the loss of farmland and Reform stating it will seek to reverse the decision and warning investors.