Representation by Winchester City Council (Winchester City Council)
- Date submitted
- 19 February 2020
- Submitted by
- Local authorities
Winchester City Council Relevant Representation Aquind Interconnector Planning Inspectorate Reference: EN020022 Summary of main aspects: The main site for the Converter Station, part of the access roadway and a section of the cable route lies within the Winchester City Council area. As one of the host authorities, we wish to register to participate in the Examination of this DCO. Detailed representations will be made in the Local Impact Report but at this time our main issues are as follows: 1 Questions continue over the level of engagement by Aquind with the local communities of Denmead and Hambledon. 2 The option of considering a route for the cable across the open countryside to the west of the A3 has not been properly assessed as an alternative to the road route. 3 There is a lack of detail in the evidence base for the choice of Lovedean over other alternatives and the degree to which the proximity to the National Park played in that decision. Correspondence with NGET should be included. 4 This is a significant building in a countryside location. 5 The evidence base for the choice of 85.1m AOD as the finished floor level should include exchanges of correspondence with consultees on why this limit was set. 6 The building design principles need further refinement. The cladding needs to be a darker recessive colour. 7 There is a question if sufficient mitigation or enhancements are being offered for what will be a significant building in respect of both the landscape and biodiversity impacts that will result. 8 The method of securing suitable control over the long term retention of landscape features on land not intended to be purchased is unclear. 9 The landscape and biodiversity mitigation work needs greater security in terms of delivery, maintenance and future management. 10 There is an absence of detail relating to the methodology and impacts. associated with laying the two cable circuits in the Hambledon Road when the constraints which are evident in and alongside this single carriageway road are taken into account. 11 The questions raised regarding point 10 above lead to concerns over the assessment of delays and impacts on the local community of the roadworks. In the event more extensive impacts are identified, clear mitigation needs to be put forward. 12 There are questions why no further actions are proposed over Carbon emissions in the construction phase. A large residual amount still remains from the anticipated emissions which are not mitigated in any way. 13 The claimed benefits to the local economy from expenditure and over night stays are considered unrealistic. 14 There is a lack of a firm commitment regarding an Employment and Skills Plan. 15 A statement indicates that spare telecommunications capacity will be used on a commercial basis. It is not clear what percentage is being considered and if this is truly associated development. 16 The proposal offers no legacy benefits to the wider community which will endure the presence of a significant building over the next 40 years. 17 The structure and nature of the Requirements needs reviewing. 19 February 2020 .