Derbyshire is seeing three major infrastructure projects that are being evaluated by the national Government, impacting local communities.
Derby: There are some big changes coming to Derbyshire with three major infrastructure projects in the works. These aren’t just local decisions; they’re being handled by the national Government. We’re talking about a major road overhaul, a long powerline, and a solar farm.
The A38 junctions in Derby are set for a revamp, which could cost over £250 million. This project has been in the works since 2019 and has faced some ups and downs, including a High Court challenge. It’s been approved and then quashed, but it’s back on the table again. There’s even talk that the current Labour Government might reconsider it due to budget issues.
Then there’s the 60km powerline from Chesterfield to Willington. This one is still in the early stages and won’t be submitted until late 2026. It’s meant to upgrade the electricity supply, but folks are worried about how it’ll affect the environment and local farmland.
Lastly, we have the Oaklands solar farm, which could be a game-changer. If it gets the green light, it would be the largest solar farm in the UK, capable of powering around 35,000 homes. But there’s pushback from local councils who think it might harm the environment and take away valuable farmland.
So, Derbyshire is at a crossroads with these projects. They could bring a lot of benefits, but there are also serious concerns about the impact on the community and the environment. It’ll be interesting to see how it all unfolds!
