Representation by Dr Dawn Sanders
- Date submitted
- 28 September 2020
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
Environmental The area adjacent to Sizewell is rich in biodiversity and much of it is graded as Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Site of Special Scientific Interest. The extended works and nuclear power station would impact on multiple environmental levels: flower-rich fen meadow would be lost to future generations. Such a loss is impossible to recreate or indeed compensate for. The proposed expansion is directly adjacent to world famous Minsmere RSPB bird reserve- a place of environmental importance that cannot be compensated in monetary terms. Beyond the birds and the flower-rich fen we have otters, adders, voles and rare bats all inhabiting this region. Given the national context of diminishing biodiversity surely it makes sense to be seen investing in the landscape, especially given the relationship to income from tourism in Suffolk? In addition the insects that inhabit this area provide highly important natural capital in terms of pollination services. Social The proposed increase in jobs is not clear in terms of the percentage of locally sourced workers. The percentages suggested are misleading and actually refer to global statistics, i.e. people already working for companies in the supply chain. Construction workers are in short supply in the local area and would have to be brought from elsewhere. In relation to long-term nuclear posts these are highly specialised and local expertise is not always available. Economic The proposed plan is problematic on two economic levels; national and local: National It is extremely expensive.Public money should not have to support nuclear power through subsidies, guarantees and insurances. Other nuclear development proposals have been reviewed at proposed sites in Britain and abandoned to flawed business plans. In addition, Sizewell occupies a complex site, which is based on marsh not rock, which will need greater investment in both building plans and safety frameworks. It will also need an extensive building and completion period. Given that scientists have projected the next 12 years to be critical in relation to climate change surely solar and wind offer a better business model? Local Suffolk's primary income generators are agriculture and tourism. They are substantial income generators. Tourism income is essential to the economic development and social cohesion of Suffolk.The substantial loss of tranquillity, wildlife habitats and clear views especially around the Minsmere, Eastbridge region would deter tourists for an extended period, as would the noise generated by multiple transport links. A damaged tourism trade would have detrimental impacts on the employment and businesses of generations of Suffolk families