About the Study

Why This Study Matters

The construction of Sizewell C represents one of the most significant infrastructure projects in the East of England. Alongside its potential economic and environmental impact, the development also raises important questions about how it affects the lives of people living, working, and growing up in the surrounding communities.

This independent study, led by the University of Suffolk, was created to listen, document, and understand those lived experiences. Our goal is to ensure that local voices remain central to the ongoing conversation about Sizewell C.


Our Aims and Objectives

This research project has four main goals:

  • To document community views, perceptions, and concerns prior to the main construction phase
  • To build a public record of social and community impacts over time
  • To provide accessible, high-quality evidence that supports public understanding and policy thinking
  • To facilitate respectful, ongoing dialogue between local residents, institutions, and development stakeholders

All research is conducted independently by a team at the University of Suffolk and adheres to strict ethical guidelines.


How We Do It: Our Research Approach

We use a combination of quantitative and qualitative methods to capture a rich and inclusive picture of community experience.

Key methods include:

  • Surveys with residents, families, teachers, and stakeholders
  • Focus groups and community listening events
  • Open-text responses and thematic analysis
  • Secondary data to understand social and economic trends

Our research includes all age groups, geographic areas, and perspectives — whether residents are supportive, concerned, uncertain, or affected in different ways.


What We’re Learning (Summary)

Our baseline research in 2024–2025 revealed a complex and diverse set of views. Participants shared both hopes — including local job opportunities and new infrastructure — and concerns, particularly around housing pressure, traffic, and long-term disruption.


What Comes Next

This is not a one-off study. Our team is committed to long-term monitoring of community impacts throughout the Sizewell C development process.

Upcoming work will include:

  • Annual and thematic community surveys
  • Regular Community Listening Events (focus groups)
  • Ongoing analysis of social data and local indicators
  • Feedback summaries via our You Asked, We Shared feature
  • Continuous sharing of findings with communities and relevant bodies

Who We Are

This project is run by a team of researchers at the University of Suffolk, with expertise in community engagement, social science, and impact analysis.


How to Stay Connected

You can get involved by:

  • Subscribing to our newsletter

We believe that good research listens first — and this project is here to amplify your voice.

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