Awards

Wymeswold Solar Farm 33.3MW (c 150 acres) won the inaugural Solar Power Portal award for Most Successful Large-scale Ground Mount Solar Site. We sourced the site off-market and acted as development consultants in partnership with Lark Energy Ltd. The judges felt the winning project was managed and delivered against a “very difficult” political background, yet the team involved achieved (at the time) the largest solar farm project in the country.

In particular the judges were taken with the site selection, a “perfect location” on low-grade agricultural land which encountered no objections from the locals.

All in all, an outstanding achievement for the large-scale solar sector.

Testimonials

"Alan worked with Lark Energy since its establishment in 2010. As the lead land developer, he was instrumental in the growth of the company and its recognition as one of the leading large scale solar developers. His excellent relationship with landowners and land agents and his knowledge of the complex legal contracts enabled him to identify and acquire a large volume of projects. He worked closely with the in-house team, consultants and local authorities in achieving planning consents and with the construction team in the successful completion of the projects. We would highly recommend Alan and Connolly Land & Developments Ltd and look forward to working together in the future".
 - Jonathan Selwyn, Chairman, Solar Trade Association / Former Managing Director, Lark Energy Ltd

"I have known Dave Connolly for 20 years, and we have worked together on many occasions over this period while Dave has held senior positions at Larkfleet Group Limited and Linden Limited, and before that David Wilson Homes Limited. Some of the deals we have worked on have been very complex, but I can safely say that Dave has a great ability to analyse and digest problems in any land situation and has a relentless determination to overcome challenges and find solutions by working through any issue diligently and patiently with land owners, professionals and third parties. Dave is undoubtedly very experienced in dealing with both immediate and strategic land acquisitions and disposals. His style and humour are a great attribute, but Dave’s greatest strength is the respectful, positive and open attitude which is evident to everybody he encounters".
 - Steve Wiltshire, Partner, Shoosmiths LLP

"We have recently used Connolly Land & Developments Ltd to act in conjunction with us as Development Consultants for a large Residential scheme for over 1,000 units. They produced a development report, strategic assessment and negotiated terms alongside us for our clients. I would have no doubt in recommending them and using them in the future".
 - Sunny Landa MRICS, Director, NG Chartered Surveyors

"Within nine months from Alan first approaching me we not only managed to exchange contracts within only a few months, but we received full planning consent for a 175 acre / 34MW solar farm. Quite an accomplishment in that space of time. I found Alan to be very knowledgeable, competent and personable throughout our solar project. He is very motivated and enthusiastic towards his work and indeed towards life in general. I would highly recommend Alan’s professional approach and good manner towards business".
 - Philip Good, Farmer & Land Owner Fiskerton Airfield, Lincolnshire (34MW – 175 acre site)

"We have successfully delivered many affordable housing schemes together over the 9 years which I have known Dave. His tenacity, land security and leadership of his team has given us the ability to collectively push traditional boundaries and deliver projects by thinking outside the box".
 - Ian Jackson, Executive Director of Portfolio Development, Longhurst Group

"Connolly Land & Developments have proved very beneficial in advising ourselves and our clients with various exit strategies on certain land transactions. This has been a valuable service to our clientele with their financial gain in mind. I wouldn’t hesitate in recommending Connolly Land & Developments and look forward to working with them in the near future".
 - Adam Rhodes, Partner, St. James Wealth Management