A vast new data centre, spanning an area larger than 180 football pitches, could soon be constructed near the M5 motorway in Bridgwater. Express Distribution Park Ltd, a local company, submitted preliminary plans on Christmas Eve to build this complex on land situated between the A39 Bath Road and an adjacent solar farm east of the motorway, close to junction 23.
The proposed development would cover approximately 129 hectares (around 319 acres) and reach up to 28 metres in height, making it one of the most prominent structures in the surrounding landscape. Despite local opposition, Somerset Council has approved the initial screening request, allowing for more detailed proposals to be presented by the future operator.
The facility will be accessed via Bath Road and is expected to require roughly 500MW of power—most of which would be sourced from the adjacent solar farm. However, no detailed masterplan has been released, and the identity of the company that will manage the data centre remains unknown. Information regarding potential job creation is also yet to be disclosed.
Plans indicate that the project will integrate significant green and blue infrastructure, offering opportunities for sport, leisure, and well-being activities while supporting biodiversity net gain. If approved, construction is estimated to take around three-and-a-half years, projecting the data centre to be operational in the early 2030s—after nearby developments such as the local gigafactory are up and running.
A spokesperson from Lichfields, representing the applicant, emphasized the critical role digital technology plays in modern life, highlighting the growing demand for data centres as essential infrastructure supporting connectivity, work, education, and entertainment. They noted Somerset’s evolving economy, which is increasingly digital and attracting diverse business sectors.
Nonetheless, concerns have been raised by Bridgwater Without Parish Council. They emphasize that most of the proposal’s site falls within flood zone 3, areas highly susceptible to flooding. The parish clerk, K. Lang, expressed worries over the introduction of large impermeable surfaces on low-lying land, potentially exacerbating flood risks both onsite and downstream. The council also criticized the lack of demonstrated flood risk mitigation measures and flagged that the large buildings, towering up to 28 metres, would be conspicuous across the Levels, Puriton, and Horsey.
Additionally, the prolonged construction period could bring a significant increase in heavy goods vehicle (HGV) traffic along the A39 and surrounding roads. The council questioned whether the chosen location is indeed the least disruptive option for such a facility.
Somerset Council anticipates receiving more comprehensive plans for scrutiny later this year, continuing the evaluation process for what could become a landmark digital infrastructure project in the region.