Elements Green secured development consent for the 800 MW Great North Road Solar and Biodiversity Park in Nottinghamshire after the UK government announced the decision on 27 October 2026.

Classified as a Nationally Significant Infrastructure Project, the scheme will combine about 1,100 MWp of photovoltaic panels with a co‑located battery energy storage system capable of up to 440 MW and 1,760 MWh of capacity.

Elements Green estimates the solar output could supply the annual electricity needs of roughly 400,000 homes, while the battery can store four hours of power at its maximum output.

The development will occupy approximately 2,800 hectares northwest of Newark‑on‑Trent and will connect to the national transmission network at the Staythorpe substation.

The consent follows a planning process that began with an application submitted in June 2025, acceptance for examination in July 2025, and a recommendation from the Planning Inspectorate in July 2026.

Although the developer previously indicated a spring 2027 construction start, the latest approval did not confirm a definitive start or completion date, leaving detailed design, financing and procurement to be finalised.

The project proposes extensive biodiversity measures, including planting about 64,500 trees, establishing 50 km of new hedgerows and creating additional habitats, alongside 28 permissive routes providing nearly 35 km of public access.

A community benefit scheme could deliver up to £1 million per year in locally managed funding during the park’s operational life, subject to final implementation arrangements.

Stakeholder consultation has involved organisations such as the Royal Society for the Protection of Birds, Sherwood Forest Trust, Nottinghamshire Wildlife Trust and Trent Rivers Trust.