Alicia Kearns MP has made her opposition to the proposed 2,175 acre Mallard Pass solar plant in Eastern Rutland clear – and has always been adamant that the decision on the Nationally Significant Infrastructure project must take local opinion into account.

Ms Kearns, alongside the Mallard Pass Action Group and the Essendine Village Hall, had organised a ‘town hall’ meeting on April 7th, Months ago, representatives of Mallard Pass were agreed to come to listen to the concerns of residents.

This was an incredibly well subscribed event, with the venue due to be at capacity with residents eager to raise their concerns about the proposal, and put their questions to the developers.

Yesterday (29th March), Mallard Pass announced that they would not be sending a representative to this important meeting in advance of the second stage of the planning consultation, citing the fact that ‘new information regarding our proposals for Mallard Pass will not be available’.

The meeting will go ahead, as planned, and Alicia Kearns hopes that Mallard Pass will change their mind and send a representative – a seat will be kept free for them.

 Alicia Kearns, MP for Rutland and Melton, said:

I’m very disappointed that the Mallard Pass developers have decided not to take the opportunity to attend a public meeting with residents affected by their solar plant.

With most residents bitterly opposed to the Mallard Pass developers, this was an opportunity for them to make their case – and learn what residents think of their scheme.

It’s quite something for an organisation claiming to be committed to engaging openly and honestly with the community to make a decision not to engage with the community. This is not acceptable.