Atlantic Array Wind Farm

Representation No. 1557 Received 16 September 2013 From David Pinney on behalf of Five Parishes Atlantic Array Working Group

Representation

“FIVE PARISHES ATLANTIC ARRAY WORKING GROUP Representations The Working group is comprised of the five parishes affected by the onshore elements of the proposed wind farm: Abbotsham; Alwington; Littleham and Landcross; Bideford; and Alverdiscott and Huntshaw. The aim of the Working Group is: “To ensure the minimum impact during the construction, maintenance and decommissioning of the cable corridor and the maximum benefits are obtained for the five parishes; recognising the disruption, inconvenience and repercussions this work will have on all residents and to articulate effectively those issues.” The stance of the Five Parishes towards the principle of the development is one of neutrality. The Working group are concerned about the impact of the development relating to the following matters and therefore object until such matters are resolved. Noise, Light and Dust Pollution and General Disturbance The route of the cable network and associated works will cause considerable noise, dust and general disruption to local residents throughout the five parishes. In particular cases the extent and layout of the compounds, sub-station and cable route will cause severe problems for nearby residents, such as: - The A39 and the A386 Bideford compounds are located close to existing dwellings and will cause considerable discomfort and loss of amenities to residents exacerbating existing health issues for others; - Works to the sub-station should be co-ordinated to accommodate other known energy projects; - Access to the coastal path, including car parking, will be curtailed and disrupted; - Disruption will be caused to local residents who will be denied vehicular access to their homes for significant periods, causing distress and considerable inconvenience; - Residents throughout the parishes will be required to undertake long diversions to access essential daily services; - Emergency services and essential community services, eg refuse, postal deliveries, maintenance services, will be required to undertake significant diversions with the added danger that properties may not be accessed in a timely manner. Roads Prescribed routes include the B3232 and narrow country lanes which are inadequate in width/ alignment to accommodate the size/ number of vehicles using them. More commodious routes and layouts are available. The use of direct accesses to the A39 compounds will be hazardous; they should be re- designed and the compounds moved further away from existing houses. Impact on Local Businesses The disruption caused by construction and lengthy road diversions will adversely affect local holiday and other businesses located within and serving the five parishes. Management of the Construction Process It is considered that further detailed work should be undertaken by the applicants to produce management plans for all elements of the construction works setting out clear parameters for contractors in terms of hours/ methods of operation, noise/ dust control measures, access routes and lighting controls. Waste Disposal Further information should be provided relating to the disposal of waste and resulting impacts assessed. More detailed comments on all matters will be provided at the examination stage of the process.”