Plans for a major new solar farm, covering the equivalent of 86 football pitches, have been granted approval despite concerns from local residents and councillors.

Mid Suffolk District Council voted unanimously in favour of the development, which will see solar panels installed across a 120-acre site at Palgrave, near Diss in Norfolk. The project, proposed by renewable energy firm Aura Power, is expected to generate enough electricity to power around 12,000 homes annually.

While the move was welcomed by supporters of green energy, it sparked objections from some local residents and campaigners. Concerns were raised about the visual impact on the rural landscape, potential disruption to wildlife habitats, and the loss of productive agricultural land.

Farmer Stephen Rash, whose land will partly host the solar panels, addressed the council during the planning meeting. He defended the project, stating it would provide financial stability for his wider farming operations.

“This project is not a threat to food security—it is a safeguard,” he told councillors. “It will provide a safe, reliable income that allows us to invest in farming practices, modern equipment, and long-term sustainability.”

Supporters of the scheme also pointed to the environmental benefits of renewable energy, the financial contributions Aura Power has pledged to make to local projects, and the support it offers to landowners in difficult economic times.

However, Green Party cabinet member for environment, culture and wellbeing, Tim Weller, voiced his unease, saying the growing number of energy projects across the region was placing a heavy burden on rural communities.

“Every village in my parish is being affected,” he said. “People can be forgiven for feeling like they’re single-handedly powering up Britain—and it’s all just a bit too much. The area feels under siege from energy infrastructure.”

Aura Power has committed to contributing £12,000 annually to a community benefit fund for the life of the solar farm.

Construction on the site is expected to begin later this year and will take approximately eight months to complete.

A logistics park expansion in Great Blakenham, Ipswich, could generate 3,500 new jobs, according to developers Curzon De Vere. The company has submitted a planning application to Mid Suffolk District Council, seeking approval to diversify operations at the 150-acre Port One Logistics Park.

If the proposal is approved, the development could contribute an estimated £3.4bn to the county's economy. Curzon De Vere's expansion plan includes a rebranding of the site to Port One Technology Park, introducing new engineering and innovation facilities alongside existing logistics operations.

Matthew Slater, Managing Director of Curzon De Vere, highlighted the park's rapid growth, attributing it to both international demand and the company's vision for Suffolk. "Port One has been growing at pace due in equal parts to demand from international businesses and our own ambitions to build a project that puts Suffolk on the global map and helps drive the local economy forward," he stated.

Sustainable and Technological Developments

The proposed expansion would incorporate a vertical farm growing vanilla, strawberries, and pharmaceutical crops, alongside a farm shop and AI-focused innovation units. Sustainability is also a key aspect of the plan, featuring 50 hectares of solar panels, a dedicated concrete production plant, and the planting of 150,000 trees to enhance the site's green credentials.

Infrastructure and Road Upgrades

To support increased activity at the park, Curzon De Vere has pledged to fund improvements to surrounding roads, including enhancements to junction 52 of the A14, aimed at reducing congestion and improving accessibility.

Mr. Slater expressed enthusiasm for the project, emphasizing its potential to boost employment and economic prosperity. "We are excited to be bringing prosperity and jobs to the area and ensuring the region regains its status as a leader in enterprise and industry," he said.

Mid Suffolk District Council leader, Andrew Mellen, welcomed the proposal, noting the district's attractiveness to businesses. "Mid Suffolk is an attractive place to do business, and we have already seen truly innovative and ambitious firms choosing to relocate or expand into the district in the last 12 months. We look forward to hearing more about Port One's plans, and will be encouraging people to have their say when the plans are submitted."

The planning application is currently under review, with further consultations expected before a final decision is made.

Framlingham Technology Centre in Suffolk is redefining sustainability, demonstrating that environmental responsibility and modern business operations can seamlessly coexist. As a frontrunner in Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) initiatives, the Centre is dedicated to minimising its environmental impact while providing a cutting-edge workspace for its tenants.

At the heart of this sustainability effort is the Centre’s significant investment in photovoltaic (PV) technology. This advanced solar energy system supplies the facility with renewable power, greatly reducing dependence on non-renewable energy sources. By leveraging solar energy, Framlingham Technology Centre has successfully lowered its carbon footprint and contributed to a more sustainable future.

Beyond environmental benefits, this commitment to sustainability offers tangible advantages for businesses operating within the Centre. By utilising renewable energy, tenants enjoy reduced operational costs, enhancing overall efficiency. Additionally, aligning with an environmentally responsible workspace allows businesses to reinforce their sustainability commitments to clients, stakeholders, and employees.

More than just a workplace, the Centre fosters a community committed to environmental responsibility. Businesses that choose this eco-conscious facility become part of a forward-thinking network that values innovation, long-term success, and a greener planet.

For organisations seeking to champion sustainability while thriving in an innovative environment, Framlingham Technology Centre provides an ideal setting. Take your business to the next level in a workspace designed for a sustainable future.

Aspall Cyder House in Debenham, near Stowmarket, is set to benefit from a £10 million investment aimed at enhancing production and packaging efficiencies. This latest financial boost, coupled with infrastructure upgrades, is expected to modernize operations while maintaining the site's rich heritage.

Damian Mills, head of supply chain at Aspall Cyder, emphasized the significance of the investment: “This plan is an important investment in the future of Aspall Cyder House to help us meet demand for our ciders and vinegars while making strong progress against our sustainability targets.

“Our products have been made at Aspall Cyder House since 1728, and we are committed to keeping it at the heart of our business for many years to come. Molson Coors’ latest investment will ensure we can continue to grow the brand while protecting the site’s heritage and continuing our commitment to the very highest quality.”

Aspall Cyder House has a long-standing legacy dating back to 1728 when Clement Chevallier planted apple trees in a landscape dominated by cereal crops. More than three centuries later, the company continues to produce cyder and cyder vinegars at its original site.

This new investment follows a £13 million expansion in 2022, which increased capacity at the Suffolk-based facility.

Patrick Spencer, MP for Central Suffolk and North Ipswich, expressed his support for the initiative: “Aspall Cyder House is a vital part of our local heritage, and this new investment will ensure its continued prominence for years to come. It fills me with pride to see such renowned brands being produced right here in our region.”

Aspall currently employs over 130 people and prides itself on using 100 percent renewable electricity to create its products. The investment aligns with the sustainability commitments of parent company Molson Coors, which also owns brands such as Carling, Cobra, and Doom Bar. Molson Coors aims to achieve net-zero emissions across all of its sites by 2035.

This latest financial injection underscores Aspall's dedication to balancing innovation with tradition, ensuring the brand's continued growth while remaining deeply rooted in its historic Suffolk home.

Sizewell C executives have hailed the project's first year of construction as a "huge success," with plans to double the current on-site workforce to 2,000 by the end of 2025. Since breaking ground on January 15 last year, the nuclear power plant near Leiston has already engaged nearly 300 UK companies, generating an economic boost of £2.5 billion.

Regional Economic Benefits

A significant portion of the project's investment has been directed toward businesses in the East of England, amounting to more than £100 million. Notably, Ipswich-based Jackson Civil Engineering has secured a £19 million contract to undertake key road projects early next year.

Additionally, Sizewell C has partnered with the Royal British Legion Industries and awarded a two-year licence to Ipswich veterans' community interest company Combat2Coffee to manage the site’s coffee shop.

Progress and Key Milestones

The past year has seen major preparatory work completed, including archaeological surveys, earthworks, and infrastructure enhancements. Construction efforts have also focused on setting up a concrete batching plant, a temporary desalination facility, new site offices, and improvements to road and rail networks. Park and ride sites have also begun development to facilitate smoother transport for the workforce.

A major milestone was reached in April when the project was granted its Nuclear Site Licence. Additionally, Sizewell C made headlines last year with one of the UK’s largest leasing deals, securing one million square feet at Orwell Logistics Park in Ipswich for storage and logistics operations.

Leadership Perspective

Joint Managing Directors Julia Pyke and Nigel Cann described the past year as "incredible," highlighting significant advancements in both on-site and off-site developments.

“With around 1,000 people currently working across our sites, we’re rapidly pushing forward,” they stated. “By the end of this year, we’ll have doubled our workforce and increased our apprenticeship numbers significantly. Our early manufacturing efforts are also progressing well, with 20% of equipment production already completed, ensuring valuable contracts for UK suppliers and fostering economic growth.”

Once operational, Sizewell C—primarily owned by UK taxpayers—will have the capacity to supply energy to six million homes.

Local Impact and Community Support

Brian Crofton, Managing Director of Jackson Civil Engineering, expressed enthusiasm for his company’s involvement in the project: “Being a Suffolk-based firm, we are thrilled to secure this contract. Sizewell C will play a crucial role in boosting the local economy, generating jobs, and upskilling the workforce. We are eager to contribute to this once-in-a-generation opportunity.”

Further community engagement efforts include the £23 million Sizewell C Community Fund, which will allocate approximately £2 million annually to local organisations over the next decade. Nine charities have already received a combined £300,000, with the next round of funding recipients to be announced soon.

Anna Hughes, Interim Chief Executive of Suffolk Community Foundation, emphasized the fund’s potential impact: “This initiative will enhance quality of life and wellbeing across our local communities. We’re excited to see the first grants already making a difference and look forward to witnessing the progress of funded projects.”

Investing in Future Talent

Apprenticeships remain a cornerstone of Sizewell C’s workforce development strategy. In the first year, 60 apprentices joined the program, with plans to train at least 1,500 over the duration of the construction phase.

With its strong economic contributions, regional partnerships, and commitment to workforce development, Sizewell C’s progress marks a significant step toward the UK’s energy security and regional prosperity.

Proposals for a £18 million skills and innovation centre in Stowmarket have been given the green light, marking a significant milestone for the town and the surrounding region.

Planning permission has been granted for the 35,000 sq ft facility at the Gateway 14 business park. This approval paves the way for construction to begin on the ambitious project, which aims to address local skills shortages and support economic growth within Freeport East and the wider Suffolk area.

A Hub for Growth and Innovation

The state-of-the-art centre will feature office spaces for start-ups, collaboration and innovation zones, training and meeting rooms, and a café. It is designed to meet the needs of businesses and local skills providers, with a particular focus on fostering growth in sectors like the green economy and digital/AI technology.

Additional business support services will also be available, making the centre a hub for entrepreneurship and innovation. The facility aims to attract businesses of all sizes, from local start-ups and SMEs to international companies, while fostering collaboration and sustainability.

Funding and Regional Impact

The project has received £16.6 million in funding from Freeport East, with Mid Suffolk District Council covering the remaining costs. Once completed, the centre is expected to serve as a key driver of economic growth in Stowmarket and the surrounding areas.

Steve Beel, Chief Executive of Freeport East, celebrated the approval:

“This is great news for Gateway 14 and Freeport East, and an important next step in growing and diversifying the economy of Stowmarket and the wider Mid Suffolk area. Sustainability and enterprise are at the heart of this new centre and will help to attract a range of new businesses to the area, from local start-ups and SMEs to international brands.”

He also highlighted the site's strategic location, positioned between the UK's largest trading gateway at Felixstowe and the world-class knowledge hubs of Cambridge and East Anglia.

A Vision for the Future

Richard Winch, Cabinet Member for Housing and Property at Mid Suffolk District Council, emphasized the project's significance:

“This is such a significant moment for what is an incredibly exciting project and one which will not only be greatly beneficial for Stowmarket, but the much wider area too.

“We have ticked the boxes and jumped the hurdles, now is the time for us to deliver on our promises and bring these plans to life.”

The skills and innovation centre is seen as a cornerstone of the Gateway 14 development, ensuring the site evolves into a vibrant, mixed-use business park.

Ben Oughton, Development Director for site developers Jaynic, added:

“The skills and innovation centre at Gateway 14 ensures that the site is becoming a truly mixed-use scheme attracting a variety of users that will benefit the regional economy in this part of East Anglia.”

Next Steps

While the project's final completion date remains unconfirmed, approval of the plans represents a major step forward in realizing a transformative vision for Stowmarket. The centre is poised to drive innovation, support local talent, and help shape the region’s future in the green economy and cutting-edge technology sectors.

ScottishPower Renewables has awarded a key contract for its East Anglia TWO offshore wind farm to Taylor Woodrow, marking a significant milestone for the £4 billion renewable energy project.

The contract involves onshore works at the substation in Burstall, near Bramford, Ipswich. Taylor Woodrow will undertake highway improvements, landscaping, and screening efforts at the site, which was initially built in 2020. The project is expected to support approximately 80 jobs during construction.

This latest announcement comes as part of ScottishPower Renewables’ ongoing supply chain commitments, following the success of its Allocation Round 6 auction in September.

Ross Ovens, Managing Director of Offshore at ScottishPower Renewables, expressed his confidence in the collaboration. “Taylor Woodrow has an outstanding reputation and successful track record of delivering vital infrastructure projects like this,” he said. “It’s fantastic to welcome them on board and have them join our East Anglia supply chain family to support our onshore substation works.

“Our East Anglia TWO wind farm won’t just produce enough clean, green energy to power nearly one million homes. It will also support thousands of jobs during construction and create many permanent skilled jobs when it comes into operation – all of which means a further boost for the local economy.”

Taylor Woodrow’s Managing Director, Phil Skegg, highlighted the importance of the partnership. “Being part of the ScottishPower Renewables supply chain family is a great reward for our own team and builds on the successful work being done with other partners to provide vital infrastructure for the UK.

“As a business, it is excellent to be partnering with an organisation with such vision, and I know our people are excited to be part of what will be a prestigious development.”

ScottishPower recently announced that the 64 turbines for the East Anglia TWO wind farm will feature blades manufactured in Hull, further showcasing the project's commitment to boosting UK supply chains.

The onshore substation works are set to begin in 2025, with the wind farm scheduled to become operational in 2028, delivering clean energy and long-term economic benefits to the region.

Rev Clive Mobbs has joined Sizewell C as its new chaplain, bringing spiritual support to the team constructing the nuclear power station on Suffolk’s coast. Starting his role on October 28, Rev Mobbs aims to be a steady presence for the growing workforce during both the project's construction and its eventual operation.

This new role is part of a partnership between the Church of England in Suffolk and Sizewell C. Rev Mobbs is only the third salaried chaplain at a UK power station, following in the footsteps of Rev Ewen Huffman, the first chaplain at Hinkley Point C in Somerset.

A Multi-Faceted Role

Rev Mobbs described his work as varied, ranging from offering one-to-one spiritual support to celebrating project milestones and holidays. “I want to be a constant and steady force on the site,” he said. “People here will experience all the highs and lows of life, and I’ll be here to support them through it all.”

Drawing inspiration from other chaplaincies in Suffolk, he is collaborating with colleagues, including the chaplain at the University of Suffolk, to adapt strategies for Sizewell’s unique setting.

Bringing a Wealth of Experience

Born and raised in East Suffolk, Rev Mobbs has had a diverse career spanning agriculture, education, and youth services. Before his ordination, he worked with a national adult education charity and retired last year as Participation Manager at Suffolk County Council, where he promoted opportunities for young people.

With an estimated 1,500 apprentices working at Sizewell C, he sees his role as particularly relevant. “Many young people will be working away from home for the first time. It’s a chance to help them navigate challenges and celebrate their achievements,” he said.

Learning from Experience

Rev Mobbs has sought advice from Rev Ewen Huffman, whose tenure at Hinkley Point C began just before the pandemic. Rev Huffman emphasized the importance of supporting workers’ spiritual needs alongside physical and mental health.

“It’s wonderful that Sizewell C is bringing in a chaplain early in the project,” Rev Huffman said. “We’ve learned a lot at Hinkley, and I hope our experiences can help inform Clive’s journey.”

A Chaplain for Everyone

Rev Mobbs is committed to supporting people of all faiths and none. “My role is to be there for everyone, regardless of their beliefs,” he explained. He also plans to collaborate with local parishes and faith communities across Suffolk to create a welcoming and inclusive environment.

Building a Supportive Culture

The Archdeacon of Suffolk, Ven Rich Henderson, highlighted the vital role of chaplains in various sectors, from hospitals to agriculture. He expressed confidence in Rev Mobbs' ability to support Sizewell C’s workforce.

Julia Pyke, Joint Managing Director at Sizewell C, welcomed Rev Mobbs to the team. “Clive’s spiritual support is a fantastic addition to the resources we already provide on-site. In a short time, he’s made a meaningful impact, including leading our Remembrance Day service,” she said.

As construction progresses, Rev Mobbs looks forward to becoming, in his words, “a mate for the journey” for those working on this monumental project.

Little Saxham, near Bury St Edmunds – CLAAS UK Limited, a leading provider of farm machinery, has been highly commended by Ofsted for its apprenticeship training in land-based engineering. Following its first full inspection in September, the apprenticeship program was rated ‘good’ in four areas, with an ‘outstanding’ mark for apprentice behaviour and attitudes.

Launched in 2022, CLAAS’s apprenticeship program aims to address the demand for skilled land-based engineering technicians. Ofsted praised the program’s focus on developing technical skills for machinery maintenance and repair, noting that apprentices train with industry-experienced instructors and state-of-the-art equipment. According to Ofsted’s report, apprentices are gaining the essential skills needed to service equipment like tractors and combine harvesters and can immediately apply their learning.

“Apprentices develop the high-level technical skills they need to service and repair machinery such as tractors and combine harvesters,” the report stated. It highlighted CLAAS’s small group sessions and individualized coaching, which foster effective learning.

The report also recognized CLAAS’s partnerships with employers within its dealership network, ensuring that training meets industry needs. Apprentices are making substantial progress, attend classes regularly, and are highly motivated to master new skills. Their program also strengthens essential English and mathematical skills, further preparing them for careers in the field.

Inspectors also lauded CLAAS’s structured approach to teaching, which includes exposing apprentices to various career paths within land-based engineering, from tractor and forager work to combine harvester specialization.

Ofsted recommended a few improvements, encouraging CLAAS to help apprentices document and reflect on their learning and to raise awareness of unique challenges within the farming sector, such as mental health and isolation. The report also suggested further training for CLAAS managers and trainers to better support apprentices with undisclosed special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

At the time of inspection, CLAAS UK’s apprenticeship program enrolled 40 apprentices.