The controversial plan by EDF to flood hundreds of acres of farmland near Kingston Seymour, North Somerset, has been met with strong opposition. The proposed conversion of agricultural land into a salt marsh has sparked outrage among local councillors, farmers, and small business owners.
At a recent council meeting, the local councillor Steve Bridger criticized the plan as “ham-fisted” and raised concerns about the negative impact on livelihoods, biodiversity, and small businesses in the area. The sudden and threatening communication sent to impacted landowners has further escalated tensions. Farmers, including third-generation farmer Sophie Cole, have expressed deep dismay at the potential loss of their livelihoods and future plans.
EDF’s proposal stems from the need to offset the anticipated impact on fish populations caused by the Hinkley Point C nuclear power station. While the initial planning conditions required the installation of fish deterrent systems, EDF now seeks to create a vast saltmarsh along the Severn as compensation for the expected fish casualties.
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The council, in a unified stance, passed a resolution urging the government to uphold the original planning conditions and oppose EDF’s current proposal. There are calls for EDF to redirect their investment towards supporting biodiversity and environmental conservation efforts in North Somerset.
The potential consequences of the salt marsh plan on sea defenses have also raised concerns, with implications for flooding and wider environmental impact. The resolution commits the council to collaborate with relevant agencies and communities to develop a comprehensive strategy for safeguarding residents and the natural habitat.
In response to the growing opposition, EDF has highlighted the potential benefits of the salt marsh in providing breeding grounds for fish, shelter for animals, and flood prevention. A public consultation will be conducted to gather feedback on the proposed plans.
The proposal has reignited memories of a similar initiative near Bridgwater, which was abandoned due to local resistance, leading to EDF exploring alternative locations. The heated debate has drawn comparisons to the poem “The Rime of the Ancient Mariner”, with concern over the fate of Kingston Seymour in the face of significant environmental changes.