Representation by Sarah Barrett
- Date submitted
- 25 September 2020
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
I have the following concerns about the Sizewell C plans: 1. The impact of extra traffic during construction: our roads already struggle to cope during the busy tourist season and harvest time: much more traffic could mean more delays for local business and unpleasant experiences for visitors, who then choose to go elsewhere. EDF say their modelling suggests that traffic won't be too much of an issue, but the experience at Hinkley suggests otherwise; the theory has not matched the reality, which has meant very significant congestion, noise and particulate pollution on main routes and the use of 'rat runs' on by-roads. 2. The impact of lost tourism is underestimated. Tourism in this area is well established, reliable, often high end, with a good deal of skill and autonomy for many providers (like me): alternative work offered at Sizewell would mainly be short term, insecure and low grade (e.g. cleaning); not a good replacement for my current business. 3. The damage to the delicate environment is very serious, at a time when we know we need to look after it better. Peace, quiet, beauty and protected natural areas like Minsmere are what currently makes this area a biodiverse haven and a tourist honeypot on this ever-changing coastline and EDF's suggested mitigations seem very simplistic. 4. The accommodation proposed at Eastbridge will completely change the nature of the area; a total loss of what is currently a charming and much valued destination for walkers and birdwatchers. 5. Workers will need more accomodation than will be provided by EDF, so housing costs will be inflated, making it even less affordable for young people than it is now: and yet we are an ageing population and need to help young people stay in the area. Of course most people will not be working at Sizewell and their wages will be relatively modest.