Object

Preferred Options consultation document

Representation ID: 98065

Received: 23/10/2019

Respondent: Mrs Mairi Child

Representation Summary:

I am contacting you to register my objection to the proposed mineral extraction site at Mansom Plantation, Shortthorn Road, Stratton Strawless.
I am of the opinion that it will have a massive detrimental effect to the ecology and environmental balance of the site and surrounding area. Local ponds to the East of the proposed site struggle to fill now, and appear to be filled by a combination of groundwater and surface water. The proposed site to the west ,(where the groundwater comes from), of the ponds will almost certainly lower local groundwater levels and impact on the ponds ability to fill. Any impact on the water quality will lead to degradation of water plants and water creatures. The gravel is at a depth of 18- 22 ft and is between 1 - 2 ft thick. Water level is around 14 ft so excavations will be 4 - 6 ft below water level which is impossible without pumping, and I informed that pumping is not permitted on this site.
This development will destroy trees , wildlife and fauna. Destruction of habitat will increase roadkill and lead to even more accidents on the A140. The government is committed to planting 11 million trees by 2022 to tackle climate change , not destroy them. The buffer/screening area is insufficient to screen for 6 months of the year when the trees are bare of leaves and the proposed will then be clearly visible from the A140. Also, during the autumn/winter period lighting of the site will, no doubt, be required and presumably will be visible from the A140 and surrounding houses.
There is an existing large saw mill/wood yard very close to the site which produces a lot of noise from vehicles and machinery and heavy lorries turning from the A140 into the site. The heavy lorries from the proposed site will have to exit onto Shorthorn Road and damage road surface and then join the A140 at a crossroads which is the centre of the village and currently a nightmare to cross. Also the proposed site would increase the current incessant noise from traffic/saw mill to local residents.
Very close to the north of the proposed site is a very popular footpath/walk through woods with parking area and used by many walkers/dog walkers. What would be the effect on this amenity? With the increase of housebuilding in local villages and Norwich suburbs these areas are a valuable asset to the county.
I also feel that a full archaelogical survey should be conducted as there is the possibility of Roman remains in the area.
Finally, are there proposed plans for the site after the Mineral extraction has been exhausted?
Surely there are more suitable sites for mineral extraction in Norfolk.

Full text:

Your Ref: M&WLPRP02019 Norfolk Minerals and Waste Local Plan
Dear Sirs, I am contacting you to register my objection to the proposed mineral extraction site at Mansom Plantation, Shortthorn Road, Stratton Strawless.
I am of the opinion that it will have a massive detrimental effect to the ecology and environmental balance of the site and surrounding area. Local ponds to the East of the proposed site struggle to fill now, and appear to be filled by a combination of groundwater and surface water. The proposed site to the west ,(where the groundwater comes from), of the ponds will almost certainly lower local groundwater levels and impact on the ponds ability to fill. Any impact on the water quality will lead to degradation of water plants and water creatures. The gravel is at a depth of 18- 22 ft and is between 1 - 2 ft thick. Water level is around 14 ft so excavations will be 4 - 6 ft below water level which is impossible without pumping, and I informed that pumping is not permitted on this site.
This development will destroy trees , wildlife and fauna. Destruction of habitat will increase roadkill and lead to even more accidents on the A140. The government is committed to planting 11 million trees by 2022 to tackle climate change , not destroy them. The buffer/screening area is insufficient to screen for 6 months of the year when the trees are bare of leaves and the proposed will then be clearly visible from the A140. Also, during the autumn/winter period lighting of the site will, no doubt, be required and presumably will be visible from the A140 and surrounding houses.
There is an existing large saw mill/wood yard very close to the site which produces a lot of noise from vehicles and machinery and heavy lorries turning from the A140 into the site. The heavy lorries from the proposed site will have to exit onto Shorthorn Road and damage road surface and then join the A140 at a crossroads which is the centre of the village and currently a nightmare to cross. Also the proposed site would increase the current incessant noise from traffic/saw mill to local residents.
Very close to the north of the proposed site is a very popular footpath/walk through woods with parking area and used by many walkers/dog walkers. What would be the effect on this amenity? With the increase of housebuilding in local villages and Norwich suburbs these areas are a valuable asset to the county.
I also feel that a full archaelogical survey should be conducted as there is the possibility of Roman remains in the area.
Finally, are there proposed plans for the site after the Mineral extraction has been exhausted?
Surely there are more suitable sites for mineral extraction in Norfolk.