Revised plans have emerged to develop a government-backed solar farm on a previously designated travellers’ site in Glastonbury, Somerset. This initiative is part of the £23.6 million Glastonbury town deal, funded by central government, which includes projects to support local communities and promote sustainable development.
Initially, Somerset Council planned to establish a new travellers’ site north of Porchestall Drove as part of the Beckery area regeneration. However, this plan was abandoned in July 2024 after the site experienced severe flooding twice in one winter, rendering it unsuitable for habitation. Following this, the council is exploring alternative locations for travellers’ accommodations.
In the interim, Avalon Community Energy has submitted updated proposals to install a ground-mounted solar farm on the land. Having received initial screening approval in December 2024, the new plan envisions covering approximately 1.2 hectares with solar panels capable of generating electricity for nearly 500 homes. The design incorporates a new access track on the site’s eastern edge and newly planted hedgerows around the perimeter to conceal the panels and security fencing, minimizing visual impact on neighboring homes and countryside.
READ MORE: Somerset Funeral Notices: Heartfelt Tributes to 23 Cherished Loved Ones
READ MORE: Dancing On Ice Star and Young Stoma Warrior Unite to Champion Bowel Health Awareness
A spokesperson for Mott MacDonald, representing the developer, emphasized the project’s sensitivity: “The solar array will occupy only the northern portion of the field and will be proportionate to the surrounding land uses, minimizing any effect on the local environment.”
Avalon Community Energy has contributed £2.8 million towards clean energy initiatives as part of the Glastonbury town deal, including solar installations on commercial buildings within the Beckery area.
However, concerns remain among local residents. Joseph Thomas, a nearby resident, highlighted the site’s history of flooding and questioned the practicality of situating a solar farm there. He warned, “If the ground is raised to protect panels from flooding, displaced water could increase flood risks to local businesses, roads, and homes—an outcome that would be deeply problematic. On the other hand, leaving the site at its current level poses serious safety risks with electrical equipment submerged in floodwaters.”
The council is set to review and decide on the detailed planning application by the end of the year. Construction would need to begin promptly if approved, as all town deal funding must be allocated by March 2026.
Notably, the Glastonbury town deal board confirmed in June that National Grid has identified a potential electrical grid connection near Porchestall Drove, which could facilitate timely delivery of the solar farm project.
This development represents a pivot towards sustainable energy solutions while reflecting ongoing efforts to address community needs and environmental challenges in Glastonbury.