You could argue that change is a distinct characteristic of Suffolk; it’s definitely one of the reasons I’ve found it so fascinating to photograph here over the last seven years. We have a constantly changing soft coastline, and the cycles of the arable farming year mean much of our landscape looks different every year, month, even week!

 

Kenton Hills, Sizewell.

But there are changes underway in the coastal belt that are unusually profound, even for Suffolk. And these are the kind of changes that can affect people’s wellbeing and cause fractures in communities. They also bring opportunities and benefits and it might be argued that the sensible thing to do is to focus on these, rather than the negative changes and losses. But before people can do that they need time and opportunity to process complex feelings about the profound changes that have been imposed upon them.

 

 

Simon, Graham and Robin Bingham, Farnham.

We're sometimes called ‘nimbys' (not-in-my-backyard) if we don’t passively accept national infrastructure projects arriving on our doorsteps, no matter how negatively they impact our lives and plans, our property values and lifestyle choices. Some people might feel that they should accept change quietly because it is in the national interest, or even of global importance, when considering the urgent need to move to a low-carbon future. I repeatedly hear people say "I don't want to be thought of as a whinger!". But we all know that bottling up feelings like anger and resentment can have a negative effect on our wellbeing, potentially leading to symptoms of both mental and physical ill-health.

 

 

Rescue Archaeology, Yoxford.

I love hearing people's stories, so I'm inviting Suffolk people to tell me about the ways in which NSIP works (Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects) are impacting their lives, good or bad. So their experiences can be seen and heard. 

 

 

Jenni Fleetwood, Abbey Road, Leiston.

It works like this: I'll come to you or we'll meet at another agreed place. Then it's really just a friendly and supportive chat where you get to tell me your story, preferably over a cup of tea. To make it easier, I have a list of standard questions. I can let you have these in advance if required. If you're comfortable doing so, we'll also take a few pictures, at home or in a place that has some significance for you or to your story. The interview usually takes one to two hours, plus a bit longer if we take some photos.

Please get in touch if you're interested in discussing this further. The best way is on email richard@thesuffolkproject.co.uk but you could also call on 07816162631 or send a message on instagram.

 

 

Felled oak, Lover's Lane, Leiston.

 

In the long-term, this project will be a record of the impacts of a national infrastructure project on local communities and individuals, and an important moment in our counties' history. I am now collaborating with The Long Shop Museum, Leiston, where the outcomes of the project will be kept and utilised. I am also working with Suffolk Archives to ensure the project complies with best practise for oral history recording. Their fantastic headquarters 'The Hold' in Ipswich will be the other main repository for the completed project. I now have the kind backing of East Suffolk Council who are funding the project, along with a series of village hall talks that I will deliver over the winter of 2025/2026. The first of these talks is scheduled for Yoxford village hall on 7th October 7pm.

 

 

Jo Chapman, Lover's Lane, Leiston.