Doddinghurst and Kelvedon Hatch are beautiful places. The air is clean, and the countryside is unspoiled, providing an ideal environment for raising our children. Our homes are more than mere structures; they are sanctuaries where we find peace and safety. It is deeply alarming to learn about plans to develop an inert waste plant right here in Doddinghurst and the neighbouring Kalvedon Hatch.

An inert waste plant would not only disrupt the serene atmosphere we've all cherished but could also have significant negative consequences for our health and property values. Studies have shown that proximity to such facilities can lead to a drop in housing prices, due to perceptions of increased noise, traffic, and potential pollution. According to the Environmental Agency, while inert waste is not as hazardous as other types, the dust generated can still pose respiratory health risks, particularly for vulnerable groups like children and the elderly.

Moreover, the local infrastructure isn’t equipped to handle the increased traffic from construction vehicles and waste transport trucks, leading to wear and tear on our roads. Our community already sees its fair share of traffic congestion, and adding this plant will only exacerbate the problem, making daily commutes more difficult and dangerous for residents.

ECC prospective Reform councillor Sam Gascoyne said the following: "I have serious concerns about the development and want to support the residents in expressing their issues with the unauthorised development.  If duly elected on the 7th of May I will be calling this in and making sure that our residents are duly heard." These comments were echoed by the borough prospective councillors Craig Thomson and Peter Gregory.

Please sign this petition to stop the development of the inert waste plant and protect Doddinghurst and Kalvedon Hatch for present and future generations.

Please also comment on the planning application here: https://planning.essex.gov.uk/Planning/Comment/ESS/03/26/BRW