Hedgehog Grove Solar Farm: Consultation and Planning Process

The planning process

Following the Government’s decision to raise the threshold for solar Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects (NSIPs) from 50MW to 100MW (effective from 31 December 2025), TotalEnergies has decided to change the way we seek consent for Hedgehog Grove Solar Farm.

Instead of applying through the Development Consent Order (DCO) process, we will now seek permission under the Town and Country Planning Act (TCPA). This means the application will be determined locally, by Uttlesford District Council and Braintree District Council, rather than at Government level in Westminster.

Moving to the TCPA process allows for a more locally focused consultation. Parish councils, community groups, and residents will have a stronger voice in shaping the proposals, and feedback will have a more direct influence on our final plans. We will continue to carefully consider all comments received to date from the Community Liaison Group (CLG) and from residents more widely.

Further details on the changes to the NSIP threshold may be found on the UK Government website.

The consultation process

Phase One: Extended initial consultation

We have undertaken an extended initial consultation, with feedback collected via a Community Liaison Group (CLG) and local residents.

Phase Two: Consultation Period

Prior to submitting an application, we will conduct our second, formalised consultation phase. This will involve several consultation elements, such as public exhibitions, mailings to local residents, website updates, and feedback forms.

We will be holding our consultation events at the below locations, on the following dates and times:

22 September 2025
Consultation Event 1 – Felsted Memorial Hall, Braintree Rd, Felsted, Dunmow CM6 3DY from 10.00-16.00

23 September 2025
Consultation Event 2 – Rayne Village Hall, 3 Gore Rd, Rayne, Braintree CM77 6TX 13.00-18.00

All consultation materials will be made available to view and download on the Documents page.