Lakenheath, Suffolk - Flood Defence Screen Replacement and Environmental Impact Assessment Decision

ENVIRONMENT AGENCY

ANNOUNCEMENT OF INTENTION NOT TO PREPARE AN ENVIRONMENTAL STATEMENT

Regulation 5 of the Environmental Impact Assessment Land Drainage Improvement Works (Amended) Regulations 1999 SI 1999/1783

Capital works on debris screen

The Environment Agency gives notice that it proposes to carry out improvement works to a flood defence on an unnamed ordinary watercourse in Lakenheath, Suffolk by the junction of Highbridge Gravel Drove and Sharper’s Corner (NGR TL7101383154). The proposed improvement works will involve the replacement of the existing security screen by a rotatable screen and the removal of one tree. A temporary compound of around 200m² will be set adjacent to the flood defence, which will be reinstated to original condition upon completion of the works.

The Environment Agency considers that the improvement works are not likely to have significant effects on the environment and does not intend to prepare an environmental statement in respect of them. Outlined as selection criteria for improvement works having a significant effect on the environment in Schedule 2 of The Environmental Impact Assessment (Land Drainage Improvement Works) Regulations 1999 the characteristics, location and potential impact have been taken into account in this determination. Due to the site’s proximity to the Lakenheath Poors Fen SSSI, a SSSI assessment form has been prepared, determining no potential for significant impact to the SSSI. An Environmental Action Plan, based on an Environmental Assessment Matrix, has been developed to account for any risk of harm to or disturbance of the environment, including potential protected species, trees, flood risk, water quality and local residents. Mitigations will be in place, including strict pollution prevention measures, biosecurity measures to prevent the spread of invasive and non-native species and compensation for trees removed during the works. It is considered that the proposed works will not have a significant effect on the environment.

The relevant environmental documents, including the SSSI assent form, Environmental Action Plan or Environmental Assessment Matrix can be obtained from the project manager at the address below.

Any person wishing to make representations in relation to the likely environmental effects of the proposed improvement works should do so, in writing, to the address specified below, within 30 days of the date of publication of this notice.

Gemma Hoad, Environment Agency, Kings Meadow House, Kings Meadow Rd, Reading, Berkshire RG1 8DQ