Representation by Sarah Doe
- Date submitted
- 27 September 2020
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
To whom it may concern I wish to raise the following issues of concern about Sizewell C. As someone who lives close by to the proposed site and visits the area frequently I am compelled to express my views on the effect the building of Sizewell C will have on this beautiful area of the Suffolk coastline. I believe strongly that during its construction and for the time the power station will be in use, it will have an adverse impact on adjacent internationally designated sites of ecological importance and sites of amenity, cultural heritage and landscape value. I have still yet to understand how anything like this can even be considered in an area of outstanding natural beauty. By the governments own definition ‘An area of outstanding natural beauty (AONB) is land protected by the Countryside and Rights of Way Act 2000 (CROW Act). It protects the land to conserve and enhance its natural beauty.’ Yet it can seemingly be wantonly be destroyed when it suits. As a member of the Suffolk Wildlife Trust and RSPB I am aware of their studies into the impact the site will have on the local wildlife. I can see this building project, before there is even an ounce of power released from the station will do irreparable harm to Minsmere - a flagship destination of international importance and significance. I understand EDF recognises that there could be impacts on Marsh Harriers which are protected species. 80 per cent of the UK’s marsh harriers can be found in the East of England and Minsmere and surrounding marshes are incredibly important for ensuring this birds continues to go from strength to strength. It is going to be impossible to compensate for landscape and ecological damage that this construction site will bring. The area relies heavily on a visitor economy. EDF own surveys suggest 29% of visitors could be deterred from visiting such a stunning area of the UK. All of this having an unacceptable impact on local communities; with increased heavy traffic, significant increases in noise, light pollution and general disruption. Minsmere reserve receives more than 120,000 visitors each year, attracted to the area by the beautiful wide open spaces and wildlife experiences the landscape offers. It plays a vital role in the local community contributing more than £7million to the economy and supporting more than 200 jobs. All which I believe is under threat from the construction of Sizewell C I wish to state that I consider the Sizewell C application to be totally unsuitable for a digital examination process and endorse the Relevant Representation submitted by Stop Sizewell C and stand with RSPB Minsmere and Suffolk Wildlife Trust to ensure these important sites are safeguarded for people and wildlife for many generations to come