Representation by Angela Mary Brace
- Date submitted
- 15 February 2023
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
Whilst I would welcome the dualling of the A12 from Braintree up towards the major ports of Harwich and Felixstowe I am not sure about this tunnel. I would support it if the tunnels continue into Essex and Kent thus leaving land as it is and just emerge to join a motorway junction. The Lower Thames Crossing proposal links Essex and Kent beneath the Thames, with 23km of new road and two 4km tunnels being built, to open up South Essex to future development. If approved, this will have harmful implications for wildlife and our landscape. I have serious concerns about the impact on wildlife and habitats in Essex, including: Biodiversity loss, such as water voles, reptiles and rare insects. Damage to and fragmentation of habitats, including ancient woodland and local wildlife sites. Increased noise and lighting disturb communication, breeding, feeding and movement in species such as bats, birds and insects. Reduced remoteness and wildness of the landscape and its tranquillity. Generating more traffic and increasing CO2 emissions, which directly conflicts with the government's target to achieve net zero by 2050. Associated development and future developments will put more pressure on wildlife and wild spaces.