Representation by Hazel Guha
- Date submitted
- 6 June 2024
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
Crossness nature reserve is a vital area of green space. It provdes habitats for rare wildlife, include a site-specific subspecies of water vole. It also provides a green amenity space for local residents and visitors. The area proposed for developed has been historically used as grazing marsh by the travelling community, and is an important resource. The development is predicted to take five years, which will cause additional disturbance and distress to wildlife, people, and livestock. Allowing compulsory purchase of an undeveloped area which forms part of a nature reserve sets a dangerous precedent. Cory's suggestion of an alternative area of land to add to the nature reserve is unacceptable as this land is not the same as the existing habitat and will have a negative impact on biodiversity. If the carbon capture facility needs to be built, why not impose a compulsory purchase order on the other side of the site, which is already industrial development. This would reduce the impact on wildlife and avoid damage to existing habitats.