Proposed Development 

Even subsequent to the Public Meeting held by QC on 22nd April 25, details are limited. 
We know the proposed site boundaries included in the QC screening opinion request to ESC (18th February 2025).

In order to try and comprehend the scale of the development, some crude estimates have been made until more detailed information is available. We have also used information provided in the QC proposal (page 10). We understand that an acre of land can fit about 1,500 solar panels. The exact number depending on the Inverters, space between rows for maintenance, type of photovoltaic panel, type of mounting system and the land’s topography. We have also been advised, by QC, that as the land is not flat, a reduced number of solar arrays can be situated on the site. It is understood that the equipment is as follows:

• A series of solar arrays (no. tbc) at a height of approx 3m, containing over 400,000 solar panels.
 This is an estimate in the absence of detailed information.

• Approximately 25 shipping type containers (3m high), located throughout the site, containing Battery Energy Storage Systems (15) and Inverters (9). These will require a concrete base with stepped access one end. 


• A Distribution Network Operator (DNO) substation (cabin), which includes: DNO meter point and customer substation.

• Communications and weather monitoring equipment.

• Site entrances on narrow country lanes (with blind bends) for construction and operational activities. Significant size entrances are required to accommodate a construction compound/set-down area, numerous HGVs per day, industrial scale machinery/equipment, worker’s vehicles, welfare facilities, office, etc.

• Sizeable visibility “splays” will also be required at entrances. Entrances will comprise of a significant hard standing concrete base, the square meterage of which is unknown. But, it is reasonable to assume this area would be on a substantial industrial scale. It is not clear whether the solar arrays come ready prepared, or whether they will be constructed on site.

• Access tracks throughout the site (no. tbc), presumably crossing the existing footpath? 


• A 2m high wire mesh perimeter fence and security detection cameras (no. tbc by Insurers) around the site, with extensive security signage.


• Underground cabling connecting to the Parham substation. We understand the distance for this 132KV cable is approximately 6KM. The cable route runs through the Conservation area of Easton, by the Crinkle Crankle wall, and goes via the narrow single track Quiet Lane to reach Parham. 

The proposed lease of the site would be for a period of 40 years. However, we have found information stating solar panels “….are lasting much less than expected, at around 20 years…..” (see Fire Risks, Storm Damage, Contamination/Pollution & Clean up Objection).

QC has stated, “…after this point all elements of the Proposed Development will be removed from Site and the land restored to its original use” (page 10 of proposal). This is stating that the land will be returned to its current agricultural use at the end of the lease, and that any impacts of the development would therefore only be temporary.

However, 40 years is a very long time! The construction of a Solar Farm the size of the proposed development in Letheringham will cost millions of pounds. Therefore, it is unlikely that the site will ever be returned to its current agricultural use. Instead, it is very likely that any equipment that has reached the end of its life will be replaced and the lease extended. Alternatively, there is a view that such land could become contaminated wasteland, with vast amounts of redundant infrastructure. In the absence of being able to establish any enforceable mechanisms to ensure removal of such equipment, it is not unreasonable to question the claims of QC with regards to reinstatement of the land. 

Who benefits and at what cost?  

Quintas Cleantech, financial investors and the landowners will be the winners; it won’t be local residents, visitors to the area, wildlife, or tourism/local businesses. The proposed development is an industrial scale power plant and will make QC, financial investors and landowners millions over the 40 year lease. The power generated by the solar panels will go straight to the national grid – it is not expected to be a cheap source of electricity for people living in the vicinity of the solar farm.

Residents, visitors, and wildlife will be the losers, as they will no longer be able to enjoy a truly unique part of the countryside, rich in Heritage assets. There is also concern that holidaymakers will be less likely to make Letheringham a destination of choice. This would negatively effect local businesses via a reduction in tourist expenditure, vital for so many small local businesses and people.

Whilst welcoming Green Energy, there does not appear to have been a full cost benefit analysis of the situation unfolding. The question has to be: at what cost? Instead of implementing a rabid assault on our Deben Valley countryside, how else could Green Energy be produced in order to achieve Government targets?