The National Trust has expressed strong concerns about the proposed industrial development near Taylors Farm, emphasizing the risks it poses to Hatfield Forest, a National Nature Reserve (NNR) and Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). Hatfield Forest is a unique and irreplaceable medieval hunting forest with significant ecological, historical, and environmental value.
Key reasons for opposition include:
- Ecological and Historical Importance: Hatfield Forest contains veteran trees, ancient coppice woodlands, and rich biodiversity, including nationally rare species of invertebrates, fungi, and plants. More than 60 bird species breed there, highlighting its irreplaceable ecological significance.
- Air Pollution Threat: Increased HGV traffic from the proposed site could worsen air quality near the forest. The forest is highly sensitive to air pollution, and any deterioration in air quality could threaten its rare habitats. These impacts should be evaluated during the Local Plan stage, not later, as they may necessitate changes to the Countryside Protection Zone (CPZ).
- Hydrological Risks: Shermore Brook, which flows into the forest’s lake, links the proposed site hydrologically to Hatfield Forest. Any degradation in water quality could harm sensitive marsh areas and species, risking the forest’s status as a protected SSSI. Ensuring no adverse impacts on this water system is critical to preserving the forest’s ecological integrity.
- Traffic and Congestion: The project would likely increase congestion along The Street (B1256), further exacerbating traffic issues near the forest and adding to pollution concerns.
Opponents of the development can point to the potential irreversible damage to Hatfield Forest’s unique ecosystems, the need for rigorous environmental assessments, and the importance of preserving one of Europe’s last surviving medieval hunting forests. Protecting this national treasure should take precedence over industrial expansion.
Link to National Trust’s response to the Developer’s Screening Request:
Link to National Trust’s comments to Uttlesford Local Plan Reg 19:
