Representation by Mrs Ann Dallas
- Date submitted
- 23 January 2020
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
Mrs Ann Dallas (“the objector) owns and occupies [Redacted] and is therefore one of the closest residents to the proposed substation. The objector supports and repeats the representations submitted by Substation Action Save East Suffolk (SASES) and Friston Parish Council. The following is a brief summary of the other main aspects the objector disagrees with and why, which may be followed by a Written Representation: - 1. No explanation of how the scheme will affect the objector. The applicant sent a USB containing 577 files but did not explain how the scheme will affect the objector with reference to specific files on the USB. If present, the information specifically relevant to the objector is buried in the volume of documents received which is disingenuous and a breach of duty. 2. No engagement with the objector who is a key receptor. Aside from receiving notice of acceptance of the application and the USB, the objector has not been engaged with at all by the applicant. The objector’s agent sent enquiries to the email provided and to the liaison officer for the ONE project seeking clarification but received no response. 3. No photographic montages provided to demonstrate visual impact. The documents include a “Proposed Planting Plan”, however it is not clear what will remain visible until the planting is established and thereafter. The applicant proposes developing the final design post consent, however this will limit the influence that key receptors can have on design. 4. No explanation as to what any of the designations on the objector’s land mean. The applicant has failed to make it clear why the objectors land is included in the development area, what for and how it is proposed to be used. The objectors land is designated as Land subject to Temporary Occupation and Use and as Work No 43 but we could find no explanation what any of this means. 5. No plans showing extent of the overhead line realignment works. The objector’s property is already blighted by two National Grid 24 conductor 400,000 volt overhead lines crossing in close proximity within 60 metres. The application refers to permanent realignment and temporary diversion of overhead lines, but we could not find any plans showing the proposed routes. 6. No plans showing location of underground lines and earthing. It is understood that up to six underground cables and up to two fibre optic cables with joining pits will be installed to connect into the substation. However, we could not find any plans showing the routes of the underground cables and there is no mention of any earthing which will presumably also be required. 7. No assurance of non-interference with private water supply. The objectors land benefits from a private water supply from a well that is 60ft deep and has a 10ft borehole, which is fed by an underground stream. No assurance has been received that water quality and level will be monitored and continuity of supply ensured during and after construction. 8. No suitable diversion of footpath from Little Moor Farm to Woodside Farm. The applicant is proposing to permanently stop up a historic footpath and redirect users through Laurel Covert and back on to the main Grove Road. The road could be avoided by providing a footpath through the planting to the east and south of the substation, to link back up with the footpath into Friston. 9. No provision during and after construction for reducing impact of physical factors. No provision during construction for reducing impact of physical factors arising from scheme including noise, dust, fumes, smells, vibration and artificial lighting. No immediate and permanent provisions after construction for reducing impact of physical factors arising from scheme including those stated above and electromagnetic field. 10. No woodland planting proposed to the north and west of the substation. The plans show woodland planting against the boundary to the south and east, however there is no woodland planting proposed against the other boundaries. Once established, additional planting would screen the substation from the diverted footpath and presumably assist in reducing electromagnetic field. In conclusion, there has been a complete lack of transparent consultation with local residents who will be directly and severely prejudiced by the scheme. The East Anglia ONE North onshore substation would severely affect Friston and should not in any case be permitted to be developed in such close vicinity of the village. For the above reasons and those set out in SASES and Friston Parish Council’s representations, the Planning Inspectorate is invited to reject the application.