Representation by Phillippa Headlam
- Date submitted
- 13 September 2020
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
This is the Relevant Representation of Phillippa Headlam to the Planning Inspectorate regarding NNB Generation Company (SZC) Limited DCO Application for Sizewell C New Nuclear Power Station and associated works. I live in Marlesford which is a small village just next to the A12. Whilst I recognise that the construction of Sizewell C brings some local economic benefits, I am very concerned about the impact on Marlesford residents. I would ask PINS to consider the following points: 1. Traffic flow The A12 has a very high volume of traffic, particularly during the Summer tourist season, and it can already take up to 5 minutes to join the A12 safely. Given that the construction of Sizewell C could potentially bring an additional 2,000 HGVs and buses per day, I would imagine that the two access points from Marlesford to the A12 would be virtually impossible to use, particularly during peak periods. This would lead residents to seek alternative points, causing both inconvenience as well as adding to traffic flow on other minor local roads. Given the above, it would seem sensible to construct a 4-village bypass to ensure that the residents of Marlesford (and Little Glemham) are not unnecessarily impacted as described above. The current design of the two-village bypass at Stratford and Farnham would make it very difficult to connect with a bypass of Marlesford and Little Glemham at a later date. A final point regarding the increased volume of traffic is how it will impact on pedestrian access between the two parts of the village. Many villagers rely on the Farm Café on the A12 for basic provisions. Accessing this means crossing the A12, which is challenging at the best of times. Should this proposal go ahead, the increased volume of traffic would make this virtually impossible without the provision of safe pedestrian access. 2. Southern Park and Ride Marlesford is set in beautiful countryside. The planned elevated position of the Southern Park and Ride would not only spoil the view of this rural landscape but bring unwanted air, noise and light pollution. Would it not be sensible to use the established Park and Ride at Martlesham rather than damaging even more of the natural environment? The building of a park and ride facility would also impact on house prices as it will impinge on both the stunning views and tranquillity of the village. The reason I moved here was for the peace and quiet it offers whilst providing ease of access to the A12 – both of these would disappear if the park and ride was built. In summary, the many negative effects of these proposals would seem to justify further consideration of and amendment to the current plans to ensure that Marlesford and its residents are not unduly affected by the construction of Sizewell C.