Groundwater Monitoring, Ecological and Coastal Processes Studies

Over the coming weeks, EDF Energy will be undertaking a number of studies and surveys in the area around the Sizewell C site, in order to help us in the development of detailed plans for building a new power station in Suffolk.

Groundwater Monitoring

This work involves drilling boreholes in ten locations within and around the perimeter of the Sizewell Marshes Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Work will be carried out within normal, daytime working hours, with the minimum disturbance possible.

The drilling of boreholes is expected to last for around five weeks. The monitoring programme will provide EDF Energy with important information about groundwater conditions. This will help to assess any possible groundwater impact from the development and assist in our preparation for future public consultation on Sizewell C.

Ecological Studies

Ecological studies are currently being carried out around the Sizewell estate and other locations within the Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB).

A number of bat boxes have been installed that are fitted with special electrical devices to help us understand the behaviour of bats within the area. The data from the boxes is collected regularly and will be used by our experts to inform the ecological assessment.

Extensive work is also being completed to further understand the population and distribution of little terns in the marine and coastal environment. Wildlife studies will continue throughout the year and will include looking at other species, such as the red- throated diver.

This work is in addition to the ongoing studies we have in place with Suffolk Wildlife Trust.

Coastal Processes

A radar, which will monitor coastal processes, has been fitted to the top of a building on the Sizewell A site (the highest point in the immediate area). Information will be gathered about the area of sea between Minsmere Sluice to the north and Thorpeness to the south, and extending approximately 3km offshore from the Sizewell site. The data will be used to develop our understanding of how the local seabed and shore responds to waves under differing weather conditions, including storms. This work will help us plan suitable sea defence requirements for the potential new power station and will also help with the design studies for the proposed jetty. The jetty would be used to take delivery of materials and equipment to site, thereby reducing the potential impact on local roads during construction.

For further information, please contact the Sizewell C Information Office on 01728 833891; or call in at the office (48 – 50 High Street, Leiston), which is open on weekdays. You can also call our Freephone number 0800 197 6102, or email sizewell@edfconsultation.info