Tom Gordon MP Warns Against Sacrificing Farmland for Solar Farms

Tom Gordon, Liberal Democrat MP for Harrogate and Knaresborough, has called for a more
balanced approach to solar energy development that safeguards prime agricultural land
while still driving progress toward Net Zero.

Speaking in Parliament, Tom raised concerns about proposals for vast solar farms on high-
quality agricultural land, including a recent application in Scotton, a village in his
constituency. He stressed that while solar power is essential for meeting climate targets, it
should not come at the expense of food security or rural communities.

Tom argued that the priority should be making better use of existing infrastructure, such as
the extensive roof space on warehouses and commercial buildings, before turning to
farmland. This approach, he said, would allow the UK to expand renewable energy without
sacrificing land needed for food production.

Residents in Scotton have voiced strong objections to the proposed solar farm, citing its
impact on the landscape and agriculture. Tom’s intervention reflects these concerns and
calls for a wider conversation on how to balance clean energy ambitions with protecting rural
areas.

Commenting, Tom said:

“Solar panels are vital for reaching Net Zero, but we need to be smart about where we put
them. Covering prime farmland with huge solar farms is not the answer.

“The proposal in Scotton has understandably caused concern among residents who don’t
want to see productive fields lost.

“Instead, we should prioritise rooftops and other existing infrastructure. That way, we can
deliver clean energy without sacrificing the land that grows our food.”