Representation by Oliver Ziegler
- Date submitted
- 30 May 2023
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
The information we’ve seen is almost exclusively focussed on the final proposed development of the freight terminal, warehousing and transportation links. For a project that, according to statements made by Tritax Symmetry will take over 10 years to complete, we feel it essential that clarification is provided regarding the risks and impact to residents, the environment and all surrounding areas, during both the entire development period and all of the key stages, as well as the ongoing impact, once the development work is complete. For a proposal that is focussed on the utilisation of the rail network there appears to be a serious lack of representation from National Rail, to explain why the trains to be used will remain diesel, for the 32 freight train movements per day, and what, if anything will be done to reduce the impacts from the estimated increased freight traffic, especially diesel fume pollution, noise and vibration. It has not been made clear at what times of the day, or night, this increased number of trains will be arriving and departing and there needs to be recognition of the disruption that this presents to the local people and wildlife. Additionally, the noise and pollution when the diesel engines are taking up the heavy load of a freight train to begin their journeys, nor the pollution from the diesel engines when idle, waiting for the next load to be completed prior to departure has not been presented. Wasn’t a key business justification based on reducing pollution? Could you please provide a before and after scenario of pollution levels, showing how you will reduce pollution? This will need to include all trains, trucks and vehicles arriving and departing the HNRFI location please. Housing is an addition to the proposal, we weren’t originally aware of and it should be considered completely separately, with additional opportunities provided to review the proposals and provide comment. Is this an attempt by Tritax to use government housing targets as leverage to gain approval for the interchange. How many houses are being proposed and what additional infrastructure (medical, social, waste and educational facilities) are included in the proposal? Listed below are some of the areas that the proposed Tritax Symmetry development does not appear to have fully assessed, all of which are to the detriment of Elmesthorpe village and the surrounding areas which have not been fully investigated and discussed all those who will be impacted. • Expert assessment of total pollution (fumes, noise and light from all vehicles, trains, trucks & cars plus the construction vehicles). • Clearly explained realistic road and traffic disruption scenarios and time-line showing when the disruption will occur. • Expert reports assessing all vibrations and potential ground movement/subsidence. • Expert assessment of potential flooding. • Realistic devaluation of local property, both short and long term. • Impact on wildlife, directly or indirectly, from any of the above. • Mental and health impact on residents. • The ability for the local community infrastructure to support the additional housing being built. Has the council accepted and acknowledged that they have the capacity to provide council services to all at levels previously experienced. • What carbon reduction benefit is being achieved and how is it being calculated.