Comment for planning application SCC/0045/23SE

Rivendell The Street Sturmer

I am writing on behalf of Sturmer Flood Action Group to express our objection to the proposed bioenergy plant near Haverhill. The Sturmer Flood Action Group was formed in 2014 to alleviate flooding in Sturmer. Twenty houses have been flooded here internally and gardens and outhouses are regularly flooded. The Haverhill Flood park was built to protect Haverhill and Sturmer from flooding. We note the Flood Alleviation documents with the planning application but think that any increased flood water from the plant will flow into the Stour Brook and to the flood park and may flood Sturmer. In addition, although preventative measures are suggested this water may also be polluted from the development and pollute the Stour Brook. We are seeking a stronger reassurance that the sluice gates and release of water from the flood park will be controlled so that Sturmer is not flooded as occurred in 2014, if the plant is built. We are also concerned about increased heavy lorries on the A1017 through Sturmer going to and from the site carrying noxious waste materials. The A1017 is already a problem for Sturmer residents because of speeding heavy lorries and other traffic, noise, pollution and hazard and inconvenience. We also understand noxious smells from these plants can carry for many miles and may affect Sturmer.