Legal challenge to Sunnica solar farm collapses as two councils withdraw

The big picture: The judicial review proceedings, initially backed by four local councils, have been scrapped due to the withdrawal of West Suffolk Council and Cambridgeshire County Council, making the cost of continuing unjustifiable for the remaining two councils.

Key details:

• The challenge aimed to secure appropriate funding for work councils would have to do as a result of the scheme.

• The government had indicated it would defend its decision to grant permission for the Sunnica project.

• The councils maintain that the Secretary of State made a legal error but can no longer test the case in court.

What they're saying: Councillor Richard Rout of Suffolk County Council didn't hold back:

"We are deeply disappointed by West Suffolk Council and Cambridgeshire County Council choosing not to challenge the outrageous decision by the government to approve the Sunnica solar farm that spans our two counties."

"In pulling out of this challenge, the two councils have demonstrated they are intent on serving the interests of the government over the interests of local communities and taxpayers."

Councillor Anna Bailey, Leader of East Cambridgeshire District Council, added:

"I am unbelievably disappointed with the decisions of Cambridgeshire County Council and West Suffolk Council to pull out of the Group action. They have expended public funds, the legal position has not changed, and yet they are now refusing to finish what we started. What a waste and what a let-down for local residents."

Why it matters: The collapse of the legal challenge means local taxpayers may have to foot the bill for costs related to the development, which was approved against the recommendation of the independent Planning Inspectorate.

The bottom line: While the legal challenge has ended, East Cambridgeshire District Council vows to continue working to mitigate the development's impact and secure local benefits.