Remaining earthworks and next steps

Earthworks are continuing at Foxton Solar Farm, with ARC Asbestos Removal & Demolition currently focused on completing and stabilising the western areas of the site.

Once an area has been contoured, it is progressively stabilised through rolling, spreading organic material, fertilising and seeding. Further measures, such as mulch, hydroseeding and water carts, will be used where needed to support dust management and establish stable ground cover.

The remaining earthworks will focus on the main central dune and the northern part of the site, between the dune and the boundary with Foxton Airpark. These areas require comparatively less earthmoving to achieve the final project levels.

The remaining earthworks are currently expected to be completed by early September 2026, subject to weather and site conditions.

How the remaining earthworks will be managed

To minimise disturbance and maintain site stability, works will be completed in stages. One area will be opened, shaped and stabilised before work moves to the next area.

For each stage, the work is expected to include:

• Stripping and carefully stockpiling topsoil and organic material for reuse
• Using bulldozers to reshape and contour the dune areas
• Completing final shaping, soil placement and compaction where required
• Seeding, fertilising, watering and maintaining the completed area before progressing to the next stage

What happens next

Following the completion of earthworks, the project will move into a series of early investigations and detailed design activities before main solar farm construction begins.

Early works are currently expected to take place from late 2026 to early 2027. These activities will include geotechnical investigations, such as soil samples and test pits, as well as pile testing to inform the detailed design and construction approach for the solar farm. Ground disturbance during this phase is expected to be limited.

From early 2027, the project team will complete detailed design reviews and finalise construction arrangements. Subject to these processes, main construction is currently anticipated to begin in mid-2027.

We will continue to share updates as the design and construction programme is confirmed.