Since November 2020 we have been providing technical expertise to East Suffolk Council for the proposed construction of Sizewell C nuclear power station.

Located on the Suffolk coast, the main site would occupy a large area of land between Leiston and the existing power station.  Construction could take twelve years to complete and the planned development site is in a relatively quiet location. In some instances, building works would occur relatively close to existing noise-sensitive areas including residential and commercial buildings, as well as ecological receptors such as Sizewell Marshes and RSPB Minsmere.

The project would require large amounts of materials to be moved by rail and road.  Two new roads are proposed, primarily to serve construction road freight.  These road constructions would themselves be significant undertakings.  In addition, the development would involve the creation of two temporary Park & Ride sites for construction staff, located on the A12 and at Seven Hills, east of Ipswich.

The proposed development of Sizewell C would be one of the largest construction projects in Europe.  The potential for significant noise and vibration impacts from construction/restoration works and the operation of the power station requires very careful consideration.  Wide-ranging and comprehensive noise and vibration impact assessments were submitted as part of the Development Consent Order application, and East Suffolk Council asked AJA to assist them with reviewing and scrutinising the technical detail.

We played an active role in supporting the Council during the application process.  Our remit included detailed reviews of all the main assessment documents and liaising with the Applicant’s technical specialists to examine their proposals. It was crucial to reach agreement on appropriate noise and vibration mitigation schemes, and we presented technical evidence at hearings organised by The Planning Inspectorate.  

The application is still being considered by The Planning Inspectorate.  Regardless of the ultimate decision, we are proud to have provided expertise to East Suffolk Council for this nationally-significant infrastructure project. In particular, if the development does go ahead, we are satisfied that we did everything possible to mitigate noise and vibration impacts.

At the completion of our input, Andrew Reynolds (Environmental Protection Manager, East Suffolk Council) commented, “It could not have been better”.

Client: East Suffolk Council

Image credits: Adobe Free Stock