Iceni Energy
Snetterton Biomass Plant, consultation management
Iceni Energy Ltd is proposing to build a straw-fuelled biomass plant near Snetterton in Norfolk which will generate 40MWe. Consense is managing public consultation, supporting Iceni throughout the entire planning process. Initially, we developed a consultation strategy, determined a consultation zone and compiled communications databases. To begin the pre-submission consultation, we issued a newsletter to those identified in the consultation zone and the stakeholder database. A press release and briefing pack was sent to local media and a preliminary online consultation website was launched. We then organised a public exhibition, holding three separate sessions for the media, stakeholders and councillors, and the public. We managed all aspects of the exhibition and following the event the online consultation was updated with further information and a consultation questionnaire added. A press release was produced highlighting the feedback received at the exhibition. Prior to submission, we compiled the Statement of Community Consultation which will be submitted alongside the planning application in December 2011. We will continue to support Iceni through to determination of the application.
We chose to work with Consense because of their strong experience in managing consultation for the renewable energy sector. As a company, we understand the importance of engaging communities and the Open Debate system seems the most effective way to get people involved in our proposals and letting them know exactly what we are doing.
Annette Ward
Director, Iceni Energy
