Representation by Susan Sapsed
- Date submitted
- 27 September 2020
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
As a mother, grandmother and great grandmother my main concerns are for the younger generations who will live with the results of the inspectorate's decision for many years. These concerns include: SAFETY The proposed development, although alongside an existing nuclear power station, is situated on the coast. Global warming is undoubtedly leading to rising sea levels and this is likely to impact adversely on any power station erected in such a vulnerable situation. Thus I worry about future safety. LEARNING AND EMPLOYMENT The developers recognise the learning and employment opportunities which would arise during the development of this project. However, although such opportunities are needed, the longer term view questions how many of those who have participated in the construction phase will go on to gain full time permanent employment once any power station becomes operative and how many will discover that their new skills are no longer needed. There are other, and in my view, better options for learning and employment – see further below. IMPACT ON THE LOCAL COMMUNITY During construction the local community will have opportunity to supply and accommodate workers from outside the area. How much opportunity will exist once any power station becomes operative in 9 -12 years? I would surmise much less since the number of highly skilled operatives needed to operate the facility (claimed to be 900) would be miniscule in comparison and it is unlikely that a high percentage of these will come from the existing community. Long term any increase in employment of those from the local community would be little compensation for the severe disruption which will inevitably occur during the construction phase WILDLIFE The proposed development will have an enormous impact on an important area which is already used to enhance opportunities for wildlife (and to encourage tourism in the area). The developers make a number of claims concerning provision of further wildlife areas once construction is complete but even the suggested increase in acreage would do little to compensate against the emissions from the plant. The claim is that ‘Sizewell C will benefit the environment by reducing harmful emissions’. This implies there will be some – which don’t exist at the moment. In summary The Suffolk Coastal region is ideally situated for the development of many more wind farms (both on land and sea) which, once constructed, produce no carbon and would need a continuing workforce to service them. Imagine how many farmers would welcome the additional income which could be generated from their fields if they had solar powered panels installed. The general population has been held back by the cost of installing solar panels. Imagine how many homes could have panels installed over the next 12 years if such installations became more affordable. Perhaps now is the time for the Government to use the enormous funds set aside for the construction of Sizewell C for safer alternatives. I beg the inspectorate to refuse this application for the sake of future generations. Susan Sapsed