A PARLIAMENTARY candidate for the new Bridgwater constituency has met with representatives from Hinkley Point C.

Ashley Fox, representing the Conservative Party, will be pitted against Leigh Redman (Labour), and Claire Sully (Lib Dem) in the general election set to take place on Thursday, July 4.

Mr Fox met with EDF representatives Andrew Cockroft and Gordon Bell to address several local concerns, particularly the proposal to create a saltmarsh on Pawlett Hams and the housing pressures facing Bridgwater residents.

"This will harm the local environment and remove valuable grazing for farmers," he said.

"I made clear to EDF that if I am elected as Bridgwater's MP that I will oppose this scheme.

"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."

He also raised other issues such as proposals to increase the on-site workforce, the struggling local rental market, and codes of conduct for employees.

In addition, he enquired about the rates of apprenticeships being offered to locals, and a focus on supply contracts to Somerset businesses.

Mr Fox also called for a review of the empty buses frequently seen driving around to improve public transport efficiency and reduce emissions.