Giant solar farm approved - but still in doubt

A HUGE solar farm has been given the green light for the outskirts of Kirkcudbright – but there are doubts about whether it will go ahead.

The Little Drum Solar Farm, comprising of around 75,000 solar panels on 75 acres of agricultural land, was last week approved by Dumfries and Galloway Council’s planning department.

Developers Grupotec claim it will produce enough power for 11,000 homes and more than £900,000 in community benefits over its proposed 40-year lifespan.

However there are still a few hurdles to be overcome before it can begin operating, and the developers may not meet a crucial paperwork deadline.

Councillors placed a condition of a section 75 agreement, which means the developer must enter into a contract to offset adverse impacts of their project.

This must be concluded before planning permission is formally issued – and the developers are up against the clock to get everything tied up.

At last week’s planning committee, Tim Mockridge, development manager for Little Drum, tried to convince councillors to approve it without the section 75 because of risks to the project.

He said: “We have no issue in principle with a section 75 agreement, but I would like to point out the exceptional circumstances as to why we’re asking for a different approach.”

He stressed the national energy system operator is giving priority to energy projects that got planning permission on or before July 29 2025.

Mr Mockridge continued: “The priority status that such projects enjoy provide a greater certainty of an early connection date.

“Should we not get the decision letter until after July 29, the grid connection faces the risk of being delayed until beyond 2030 – and the cost of the connection could increase substantially.

“Both of these issues would impact on the commercial viability of the proposal.

“For this reason, we are seeking both committee approval and the issuing of the formal decision letter before July 29.”

He added: “A section 75, being a three-way agreement requires the input and agreement of three different parties – and their lawyers.

“Whilst I absolutely recognise the hard work that officers and council lawyers have put in, I have been consistently reminded of how busy they are.

“It seems to be highly questionable as to whether the section 75 could be agreed in time.”

However, council lawyer Laura White advised councillors to stick with procedure to avoid any legal complications.

Dee and Glenkens Councillor Andy McFarlane supported the solar farm proposal, but insisted a section 75 was essential before formal planning permission. This was agreed by the committee.