Taylor Wimpey has recently filed an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) Screening Opinion Application with the South Oxfordshire District Council (SODC) for Thames Farm. This comes in the aftermath of their unsuccessful appeal against a decision by inspectors, ruling that Taylor Wimpey must submit a new planning application for proposed groundworks at the site.
The necessity for these underpinning works arose in October 2020 when Taylor Wimpey discovered that the chalk bedrock at Thames Farm could not effectively manage surface water through originally planned soakaways due to susceptibility to sinkholes. Previous attempts by Taylor Wimpey to propose alternative drainage solutions were also turned down.
The Thames Farm Action Group (TFAG) has voiced skepticism regarding the recent application, viewing it as an attempt to segment and thereby diminish the scrutiny of environmental impacts expected from Taylor Wimpey’s planned grouting and vibro-compaction activities. They assert concerns that critical environmental issues may be inadequately addressed or separated from comprehensive scrutiny.
Peter Boros of TFAG criticized the EIA screening application, stating, “Taylor Wimpey seeks to downplay the environmental impact of their proposed works to avoid a thorough, evidence-based Impact Assessment and full site investigation. Their oversight in understanding the site’s geological challenges at the outset has led to ongoing complications.”
In response to the application, TFAG has pointed out several alleged inaccuracies and omissions in the screening assessment report prepared by Stantec, including assertions about river flow patterns and the proximity of the site to a drinking water Source Protection Zone. They contest Stantec’s characterization of the project as ‘low impact and non-invasive,’ particularly in light of plans to drill to depths of 16 meters across a substantial portion of the site.
Henley Town Council recently reviewed the application at a Planning Meeting and voiced objections. They emphasized concerns about potential significant environmental impacts and stressed the need for a comprehensive Environmental Impact Assessment. The Council cited worries about impacts on groundwater/aquifers, potential contamination of water supply boreholes, surface water runoff issues, and urged for consideration of cumulative effects across various environmental factors including natural resources, pollution, population health, water resources, land stability, and climate.
“The Council supports TFAG’s concerns regarding errors and omissions in the Stantec report,” stated the Council representatives. “Insufficient information has been provided to justify claims of minimal environmental impact, necessitating thorough assessment and protective measures by the Local Planning Authority.”
The application remains under scrutiny as stakeholders continue to debate the potential ramifications and necessary safeguards surrounding Taylor Wimpey’s proposed activities at Thames Farm.
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