Bridgwater MP opposes plans for solar farm near North Newton
Sir Ashley Fox urges Somerset Council to reject new development proposal
Last updated 17th Mar 2026
Sir Ashley Fox, Bridgwater MP, has called on Somerset Council to block plans for a 30MW solar farm in North Newton, citing potential flood risks and effects on agriculture.
Ampyr Solar Europe is proposing to construct the solar farm on 57 hectares near Tuckerton Lane, approximately three miles south of Bridgwater.
Following a public consultation between late-August and mid-September 2025, the plans were formally submitted in December.
The project, spearheaded by North Newton Solar Farm Ltd., aims to provide electricity for 13,000 homes.
However, Mr Fox argues the development could worsen local flooding issues and impact food production.
Concerns over Flooding and Farmland
Mr Fox expressed several concerns in a letter to the council, mentioning feedback from constituents about flood risks due to surface water run-off.
He questioned if the Suedgemoor Local Plan requirements for flood risk management were met, given the site's topography and drainage challenges.
The MP also raised issues about utilizing grade one agricultural land, calling its potential loss unjustified amid heightened concerns for food security.
Road Safety Issues
The planned solar farm’s location near narrow roads with limited visibility has spurred concerns over road safety.
Mr Fox outlined that construction traffic, including HGVs, could degrade road conditions already affected by surface deterioration and landslips.
Additionally, he highlighted that incidents on nearby routes often divert traffic through surrounding roads, exacerbating safety concerns.
A JBA Consulting spokesperson, representing the applicant, underscored the government's policy support for renewable energy and highlighted the farm's environmental benefits.
The council's ruling on the North Newton solar farm proposal is anticipated by the summer.