Representation by Dr Katherine Bloomfield
- Date submitted
- 26 January 2020
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
I am writing to object to the development and construction of EA One, on the grounds of various principal issues and associated collateral damage. If such a scheme were to be approved, and the proposed electrical infrastructure was positioned inland, it will cause irreversible damage to the ecosystem which underpins the immediate and neighbouring countryside. The sanctioning of SPR’s expansion programme would bring adverse effects to the unique local wildlife, the economy and the local communities, contributing no long-term benefits to this local area. In addition to this, the development of the sub-station would create wider issues, having numerous impacts. First, there will be increased traffic flows and congestion to the local road system. The details of the compound itself, which have been misleading, will be an ill-considered 16 acre site within close proximity to residential properties and will produce high levels of noise, dust and light pollution for an anticipated 6 days a week, 7am-7pm. With regards to the public consultation, there has been a repeated failure to properly consult with affected individuals and communities. Neither SPR nor the District Council have made any attempt to check that the affected population were aware of the implications of the current and forthcoming proposals. Secondly, National Grid’s major involvement in the scheme with its own sub station and relocation of pylons is not noted anywhere in the DCO and had no involvement in the poorly run consultation process. This is a major failure of the DCO process and should halt procedure until a proper verifiable consultation has been carried out.