Environmental Impact Assessment
East Pye Solar is classified as an EIA development, which means we are required to undertake and assess the likely significant environmental effects of the Scheme.
EIA is an iterative process in which the assessment of environmental effects is carried out in parallel with the development design process. We will use the EIA as a tool to identify the potential effects the Scheme might have on the environment – both the benefits and potential negative effects. We will make sure that where we identify significant effects, we put in place measures to avoid or reduce any negative effects as far as possible, while also seeking to enhance positive effects.
The results of the EIA will be set out in the Environmental Statement, which will be submitted with the DCO application.
The EIA process
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On 15 January 2025, we submitted an EIA Scoping report to the Planning Inspectorate (PINS) with a request for a Scoping Opinion. We set out the proposed scope of the EIA process, which is how we proposed to identify the likely significant environmental effects of the Scheme. A Scoping Opinion was received from PINS on 25 February 2025.scription text goes here
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The PEIR presents the findings of the preliminary surveys and assessments undertaken to date, together with the measures we are proposing to avoid, reduce and enhance the effects the Scheme may have on the environment. The purpose of the PEIR is to provide sufficient information for consultees to develop an informed views of the likely significant environmental effects of the Scheme.
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After Phase Two consultation, we will continue to develop the design of the Scheme, and undertake further surveys and assessments. The findings of the EIA will be presented in the ES. This will build on the PEIR and incorporate feedback received during Phase Two consultation and the outcomes of our assessments.
The ES will describe the design evolution and reasonable alternatives of the Scheme. Following a detailed assessment of the likely significant effects of the Scheme, we will identify measures we are proposing to implement, to avoid or reduce effects, or enhance the benefits of the Scheme. The ES and a Non-Technical Summary of the ES will form part of the DCO application we submit to PINS.
Biodiversity Net Gain
A well-managed solar project can be a nature reserve – helping to boost and protect wildlife, improving biodiversity. As the panels are set on posts, most of the land within the Scheme is available to support new plants and animal life.
To achieve a biodiversity net gain, our plans should ensure that local wildlife habitats are in a measurably better state than before. We will provide biodiversity net gain by a minimum of 10 per cent, by developing measures such as:
Delivering new hedgerow and tree planting;
Reinforcing planting at existing hedgerow and field boundaries;
Extensive habitat creation and enhancement;
Managing grassland habitats under the solar PV panels by using a balance of grazing and cutting to maximise ecological benefits.
