Following the latest announcement of the Redmere Wind Farm project, which would affect communities across Suffolk, Norfolk and Cambridgeshire, the Suffolk Conservative Group has written to the Redmere Project Team requesting a local drop-in event in Beck Row or Mildenhall, the nearest Suffolk communities within the proposed development area.
Early engagement events have been organised in the other affected counties, but none are currently scheduled in Suffolk. The Conservative Group has raised concerns on behalf of Suffolk residents about the lack of opportunity to engage with the project team at this important early stage.
According to information published on the project’s website, a number of ‘local drop-ins’ have been organised to engage with ‘local communities and stakeholders to introduce the project and gather early feedback’. However, Suffolk has not been included.
Cllr Joe Mason, Deputy Group Leader and Shadow Spokesperson for Highways, Transport Strategy & Property, said:
“It is concerning that none of the drop-in events scheduled for this year are in Suffolk, despite the county being directly affected by the proposed development. Suffolk residents and businesses must have the same opportunity to attend a local event, learn more about the proposals and raise their concerns at this important early stage.
“This is particularly disappointing given the strategic importance of the area. West Suffolk residents are already dealing with a nearby solar farm project that could take around 2,000 acres of agricultural land out of food production. The Redmere project would impact the same area, as well as RAF Mildenhall and RAF Lakenheath, including the USAF personnel and aircraft stationed there. We are also awaiting a decision on the battery safety management plan for the nearby Sunnica Solar Farm, following concerns raised by local residents. This makes proper engagement with local communities even more important.
“We have formally requested that a drop-in event is held in Beck Row or Mildenhall. This would give residents, businesses and local stakeholders an opportunity to learn more about the proposal and raise their concerns directly with the project team.”
The Conservative Group will continue to press for Suffolk residents and businesses to be properly informed and given meaningful opportunities to engage throughout every stage of the Redmere Wind Farm development.
