Comment for planning application SCC/0045/23SE

7 Pleasant Close, Haverhill, CB9 9NR

To: The Head of Planning, Growth, Highways & Infrastructure, Endeavour House, 8 Russell Road, Ipswich, IP1 2BX Application Number: SCC/0045/23SE Construction and operation of an anaerobic digestion facility, associated infrastructure and new access road, connecting pipeline and covered digestate lagoons Applicant: Acorn Bioenergy Limited/Thurlow Estate Dear Sir/Madam, I am writing to formally object to the planning permission application for the proposed anaerobic digestion plant in the vicinity of our town, Thurlow Estate. I have several serious concerns about this development, which I believe could have detrimental impacts on our community and the environment. These concerns include: Traffic Congestion: The proposed plant will result in a significant increase in heavy goods vehicles (HGVs) and farm vehicles on roads, especially A1307, that are already unsuitable to accommodate the current traffic, not considering the future traffic caused by the town expansion. This could pose a serious risk to road safety and the well-being of our community. Odour Pollution: The anaerobic digestion process is known to produce unpleasant smells, particularly during the summer months. This will hinder our ability to enjoy outdoor open spaces and our gardens, affecting our quality of life. Even though the applicant tries to assure us of this not happening due to their processes, this cannot be guaranteed by anyone, and to prove the contrary the plant at Biogen Bygrave is a testimony in this sense, releasing foul odours on daily basis. Fly and Vermin Infestation: The foul odours and by-products from the plant are likely to attract flies and vermin, creating a public health hazard and a nuisance for residents. Methane Leakage: Many anaerobic digestion plants record regular methane leakages, which are harmful to the environment and can pose safety risks to the community. Light and Noise Pollution: The plant is expected to generate light and noise pollution at all hours of the day and night, which will disrupt the peaceful character of our neighbourhood. Environmental Risks: There is a risk of flooding in the area, which could lead to the leakage of residual chemicals, including potentially hazardous substances like hydrogen sulphide, into the Stour Brook and Flood Park, posing significant environmental risks. Habitat Destruction: The construction and operation of the plant could lead to the destruction of local wildlife habitats and have a negative impact on the natural ecosystem in the area. Land Use Zoning Violation: The site designated for this plant is agricultural in nature, and the proposed development clearly falls under industrial activities, which is in violation of the current land use zoning. I strongly believe that approving this planning permission would have a detrimental impact on our community's well-being, the environment, and our way of life. I request that you carefully consider these objections and take them into account during the planning process. It is essential that the potential consequences of this development are thoroughly assessed to ensure the safety and well-being of our community. Sincerely, Gheorghe Zaharia