Representation by Isobel Steen
- Date submitted
- 27 January 2020
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
Firstly I support the development of renewable energy resources and accept the role that offshore wind plays. But I object to Scottish Power Renewables' (SPR's) proposed onshore infrastructure associated with East Anglia One North (EA1-N) and East Anglia Two (EA2) wind farms. With a minimum onshore construction period of 4 to 8 years for SPR's and National Grid's associated works, Cristin and surrounding communities, and wildlife, will suffer severe and unacceptable disruption. The proposed complex is unacceptable in a rural, non-industrial setting, adjacent to a small village whose population is mainly of pensionable age. The village includes listed buildings, such as Friston Church and Friston Windmill, reputedly the tallest post mill in the UK. It is anticipated that there will be an audible, constant hum from the substations. Such noise pollution is not acceptable. Initial consultation has suggested that the site will be illuminated 24 hours a day, at least during the construction period. The effect on local residents, and fauna, particularly bats and owls, has not been addressed. SPR has failed to adequately demonstrate appropriate flood mitigation for surface water run-off from the substations sites. Existing watercourses quickly reach capacity and it is unclear how SPR proposes to successfully manage this situation. SPR has stated that screening of the substations site by tree planting will be largely effective within 15 years. That is highly unlikely to happen and who will be managing the care of these trees whilst they become established? I strongly object to the felling of the ancient woodland at Aldringham. The AONB through which the cable corridor will pass is by definition both special and fragile and I believe SPR's proposed mitigation measures to be inadequate. Particularly fragile is the area around the landfall site at Thorpeness. The cumulative impact of the increased volume of HGV traffic on the local road infrastructure has not been adequately addressed. There are limited footpaths, putting cyclists and pedestrians in acute danger. Loss of tourism will negatively impact on the local economy.