Resident group opposes proposed Newtown sewer plant near Core Creek; county says DEP approval would be required

A resident and organized neighbors told the Bucks County Board of Commissioners on Jan. 8 that a proposed standalone sewer treatment plant planned at the southern edge of Newtown Township risks contaminating Core Creek and Lake Luxembourg and would create odors affecting nearby residents and businesses.

Bill Everett of northern Middletown Township told the board he represents an organized steering committee and technical and outreach teams opposing the project. “The plant will also create a stink zone of up to 1.5 miles that will likely impact approximately 12,000 people living in Northern Middletown, Newtown and Lower Makefield townships,” Everett said, and added the project would affect about 100 small businesses and several daycare centers, schools and outdoor venues.

Everett said the group had provided maps and outreach materials to the county and requested follow‑up from county departments. He characterized the standalone plant as contrary to a regional sewer strategy recommended by the Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection.

In response, Commissioner Robert Harvey said the county is “focused on it” and noted planning commissions are advisory. “It is a DEP approval, which is not an easy process,” Harvey said, adding that securing approvals and funding can take many years; he cited the Morrisville Municipal Authority’s long‑running efforts as an example. Harvey encouraged residents to engage planning commissions and state legislators because the plant would cross multiple municipalities and legislative districts.

Why it matters: If built, the proposed plant would affect waterways within the county park system and multiple municipalities; county officials described DEP approval as a key regulatory hurdle and encouraged local engagement through municipal planning processes.