A major new solar energy development has been proposed on green belt land near Rotherham, with the potential to power more than 20,000 homes across South Yorkshire.
Exagen Development Ltd has submitted plans to Rotherham Metropolitan Borough Council for the Thurcroft Interchange Energy Park – a 103-hectare solar and battery installation set between Wickersley, Whiston and the M1/M18 motorway interchange.
The proposal includes thousands of ground-mounted solar panels, a large battery energy storage system, a 66kV transformer, and supporting infrastructure including cabling, a substation, fencing and new access roads. If given the green light, the park would operate for 40 years and is estimated to displace around 25,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions every year.
Despite its green belt location, developers argue the site is already influenced by nearby roads and infrastructure, describing it as “grey belt”. The land will remain in agricultural use through low-intensity sheep grazing, and once the park is decommissioned, it will be fully restored.
The developers have taken steps to address community feedback. Following consultation with residents, parish councils and MP Jake Richards, solar panels have been removed from more prominent and elevated fields. New landscaping and planting are planned, along with buffer zones around public footpaths, ancient woodland and listed buildings like Morthen Hall.
The project also includes a biodiversity plan with a promise of a 31% increase in habitat units and a 90% uplift in hedgerow value. Features such as wildflower margins, woodland creation, nesting sites for skylarks and roosting spots for bats and birds are included. Badger-friendly access points will also be added to maintain wildlife corridors.
To limit disruption during the six-month construction phase, a traffic management plan would be put in place. Access points on surrounding roads will be upgraded, including visibility splays, passing places and field entrances.
A three-and-a-half metre wooden fence will be built along part of the southern edge to reduce glare for motorway drivers, and security will be handled by infrared CCTV and muted-colour fencing designed to blend with the surroundings.
The proposal follows a previous, unused wind energy scheme approved in 2014 for the same site. While parts of the land fall within an HS2 safeguarding corridor, developers say this does not restrict renewable development.
Planning officers are now reviewing the application, weighing up its impact on the green belt against its potential to support local and national climate targets.
