Representation by James Lodge
- Date submitted
- 14 June 2024
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
Dear Planning Inspectorate, I am writing to express my profound concerns and strong opposition to the proposed Five Estuaries offshore wind farm project. As a resident of Little Bromley for the past 14 years, I have grave fears about the devastating impact this scheme will have on our village, its residents, and the surrounding area. The peace, tranquillity, and natural beauty that drew my family to this village are now under serious threat. The proposed road widening works, construction compounds, access roads, and the installation of a massive substation will irrevocably scar the landscape and destroy the very essence of our community. The hundreds of daily HGV movements will bring noise pollution, dust, light pollution, and constant disruption to our lives. The value of our properties, which for many is our most significant investment, will undoubtedly plummet, and some residents are already struggling to sell their homes due to the looming spectre of this project. The environmental impact of this scheme cannot be overstated. The proposed widening of Bentley Road will likely result in the felling of trees and the grubbing up of hedgerows, destroying the natural habitats of countless animals, birds, and insects. The loss of these green spaces will not only be an eyesore but will also exacerbate the problem of drifting snow, which has cut off our village in the past. Moreover, the constant heavy traffic will pose a significant danger to pedestrians, cyclists, and other road users, while the vibrations from the lorries will likely cause severe damage to older homes, including our Grade I listed church and local pub. Many of the houses in our village, particularly the older properties, lack proper foundations and are therefore extremely vulnerable to the effects of heavy vehicle traffic. The repeated stress and vibrations caused by the hundreds of daily HGV movements will gradually undermine the structural integrity of these buildings, leading to cracks in walls, subsidence, and potentially irreparable damage. The consequences of this damage are far-reaching and deeply concerning. Homeowners may face substantial repair costs, which could prove financially ruinous for many. In some cases, the damage may be so severe that homes become uninhabitable, forcing residents to evacuate and seek alternative accommodation. The emotional and psychological toll of seeing one's home crumble due to the actions of an external entity cannot be understated. Furthermore, the damage to our Grade I listed church and local pub, which are cornerstones of our community's heritage and social life, would be an irreplaceable loss. The proposed storage compounds will only exacerbate the problem, being an ugly, noisy blight on the landscape and further diminishing the quality of life for all residents. The constant noise pollution from these compounds will be unbearable, making it difficult for residents to enjoy their homes and gardens in peace. The visual impact of these industrial structures will also be a constant reminder of the harm being inflicted upon our village, serving as a source of ongoing distress and frustration for all who live here. The impact on local farmers cannot be ignored. The compulsory purchase of their Grade I agricultural land will reduce their yields and income, while the damage caused by underground cables and construction traffic will have long-lasting effects on the soil quality. These hardworking individuals, whose livelihoods are already in jeopardy, will suffer immensely if this project proceeds. It is deeply concerning that the consultation packs we have received focus primarily on cost considerations, with little to no regard for the human toll of this project. The mental torment and stress inflicted upon our community by the mere prospect of this scheme is already taking a significant toll, and it will only worsen if the project is allowed to proceed. I implore you to consider the human rights of the residents of Little Bromley and the surrounding areas. If the primary reason for not pursuing an offshore option is cost, has Five Estuaries engaged with end consumers to determine their willingness to pay more for a solution that does not destroy our communities? I, for one, would gladly pay more to preserve the village and local area as they are now. I urge you to refuse planning permission for this devastating scheme and encourage Five Estuaries to reconsider the offshore option without delay. The residents of Little Bromley will continue to fight against this project to protect our homes, our environment, and our way of life. Sincerely, James Lodge