As Somerset emerges as a prime location for artificial intelligence infrastructure, concerns about the environmental impact of expanding data centres are gaining attention. The Department of Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) has identified Somerset, particularly the Bridgwater area, as a “high-potential AI growth zone,” highlighting its existing infrastructure that supports such development.
Recently, Somerset Council approved initial plans by Express Distribution Park Ltd to establish a data centre on land adjacent to the A39 Bath Road, near an existing solar farm east of the M5 motorway, close to junction 23. However, Councillor Henry Hobhouse, representing the Castle Cary division, has voiced caution about potential strain on Somerset’s power grid and water supply if further data centres are not carefully managed.
Speaking at the council’s climate and place scrutiny committee meeting in Taunton, Hobhouse said, “The AI site is near to water, thank God, and it’s also near to a strong electricity supply, thank God. At this time, there are planning applications being refused in different parts of the USA about AI, due to its environmental damage. I want reassurance that we won’t be looking at many more AI centres going to Somerset, apart from where they are properly located, where both electricity and water are available.”
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In response, Councillor Mike Rigby, portfolio holder for economic development, planning and assets, emphasized AI’s economic significance and the government’s designation of data centres as “critical national infrastructure.” Rigby outlined Somerset’s strategy to encourage responsible investment that promotes local economic growth, innovation, and skills development.
Somerset submitted an expression of interest in May 2025 to be designated as an AI growth zone, with the Bridgwater area benefiting from essential land, energy, and dark fibre digital infrastructure. In February 2026, the minister for AI and online safety, Kanishka Narayan MP, confirmed that the designation process would proceed.
Rigby acknowledged the critical role of Hinkley Point C in fueling Somerset’s power supply but also recognized infrastructure limits. “There is a job for the Local Plan to set out where we want to see our commercial and industrial development, including data centres, delivered in Somerset,” he said. He stressed the importance of managing speculative applications and establishing clear guidelines on suitable locations for data centres.
Looking ahead, Rigby mentioned that This Is Gravity Ltd is exploring additional data centre opportunities within the Gravity enterprise zone, outside the area earmarked for the upcoming Agratas gigafactory, scheduled to begin operations in late 2027. Potential developments include a data centre and an innovation centre, reflecting ongoing interest in expanding Somerset’s AI infrastructure cautiously and sustainably.