Representation by Annette Leppla
- Date submitted
- 15 June 2024
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
I write to express my deep concern about the applicant’s intention to obtain permission under a Development Consent Order (DCO) to build a carbon capture facility on Crossness Nature Reserve to offset its carbon emissions. Crossness Nature Reserve is a unique nature environment, offering a habitat for rare and endangered wildlife, as well as a public space to enjoy some much needed tranquility within the often noisy and stressful environment of London. I understand that Crossness Nature Reserve is designated a Local Nature Reserve, a Site of Importance for Nature Conservation and as Metropolitan Open Land, giving the site multiple protections. These protections were given to the site for good reasons, of which more below, and must be respected. Building a carbon capture facility sounds good in theory but in practice, if built on the Nature Reserve, will result in the loss of valuable nature reserve land. It will cause irreversible damage to habitats and biodiversity and harm rare and endangered species such as skylarks and barn owls. In addition, the planned installation will have a detrimental impact on the public enjoyment of what will remain of the nature reserve, should the applicants be successful, due to noise, and the installation itself. While I personally do not live in London, I do know and visit the city and am worried about any further loss of nature reserves for those who do live in it. Every nature reserve counts, in terms of stemming the tide of species loss across the UK, which is considered to be one of the most nature depleted countries in the world. Alternative locations which are much less ecologically sensitive are available for the intended facility and this is where the company should look. You cannot save nature by destroying it.