Comment for planning application SCC/0045/23SE

Hazel Stub Farm Burton End Haverhill CB9 9AF

The proposal for this anaerobic digester has a significant negative impact on local residents, businesses and traffic. Firstly, the traffic access is unsustainable. The site of the access point is not suitable given the traffic travelling and joining from different junctions at this point of the a1307. The speed limit is currently 60mph on this stretch. Given the two lay-bys, near junction to Withersfield and the Spirit of Enterprise roundabout, this location is untenable for development that increases exiting and joining traffic to this degree. The proposed location of this anaerobic digester is wholly inappropriate. It marks an inadequate solution for all parties other than Acorn and the Thurlow Estate. It demonstrates a complete lack of regard for local residents and businesses. Some of the town's most vulnerable inhabitants attend the nearby nursery. It is abhorrent to consider that parties interested in financial gains would put this at the cost of the comfort of very young children. Meanwhile, businesses found at the Epicentre and nearby - of which there are at least two food outlets - would become unappealing establishments to visit. Further to this there is a significant impact on the quality of life for local inhabitants. The significant impact on air quality is not acceptable, nor countered by abstract reports. Anaerobic digesters are widely reported as emitting strong odours - as evidenced by other local facilities. Finally, after the development of Haverhill and the surrounding area over the past 15 years, the installation of an anaerobic digester here would counter the West Suffolk and Town Council visions for the area. This is a thriving, growing and increasingly desirable area. The installation of an anaerobic digester at the gateway to this area would severely reduce its appeal to new inhabitants, businesses and investors. In summary, this proposal is clearly only centred on financial gain at the expense of local residents and businesses, whilst also reducing road safety. There is no clear benefit for the local community that can be balanced with this level of disruption.