Ashley Fox, the Conservative Parliamentary Candidate for Bridgwater, visited the EDF site at Cannington on 30 May to address several critical issues affecting the local community.
Ashley Fox met with EDF representatives Andrew Cockroft and Gordon Bell to address several local concerns, particularly the proposal to create a salt marsh on Pawlett Hams and the housing pressures facing Bridgwater residents.
Ashley strongly opposes EDF's proposal to create a salt marsh at Pawlett Hams. He said "This will harm the local environment and remove valuable grazing for farmers. I made clear to EDF that if I am elected as Bridgwater's MP that I will oppose this scheme. The sole beneficiary is the Environment Agency which wishes to reduce its obligation to maintain flood defences. I recommend to EDF that rather than spending £50M on an unwanted saltmarsh that they should spend this money on parks and nature reserves in the local area."
Another major concern that Ashley raised was the potential breach of the agreed limit of 11,000 workers on-site. He highlighted the strain on the local rental market, where inflated rents and bidding wars make it difficult for locals to find housing. He noted that oversubscription in HPC-managed accommodation was forcing new workers into the private rental market, worsening the situation for local people.
Ashley also addressed how EDF handles employees and contractors accused of anti-social behaviour, stressing the need for a respectful environment for both workers and residents. He sought information on the percentage of apprenticeships offered to locals, emphasising the importance of job opportunities for young people in Bridgwater. Additionally, he inquired about the percentage of supply contracts awarded to Somerset businesses to support local economic growth. Lastly, he called for a review of the empty buses frequently seen driving around to improve public transport efficiency and reduce emissions.
Ashley Fox appreciated the opportunity to discuss these pressing issues with EDF and will continue to work to represent the concerns of the Bridgwater community if elected as the local MP.
