Representation by T Anderson
- Date submitted
- 12 March 2021
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
I believe the Swanscombe Peninsula should be saved from development and protected as it supports an outstanding range of wildlife. Once destroyed the habitat and species are irreplaceable. Swanscombe has a unique open mosaic of coastal habitats, grasslands, scrub and wetlands that should be retained. Natural England have recommended Swanscombe be declared a Site of Special Scientific Interest- we must protect our most important wildlife sites from being lost. It supports over 250 invertebrate species of conservation concern, including the Critically Endangered Distinguished jumping spider (Attulus distinguendus), which is found on only one other site in the UK. Swanscombe is home to nationally rare and endangered bees, spiders, beetles, wasps and a host of other invertebrates that make the site of national importance. Its rich breeding bird assemblage includes 15 red-listed Birds of Conservation Concern and 12 Species of Principal Importance- including Marsh harriers, Bearded tit, Nightingales and Black redstart. 13 nationally scarce vascular plant species have been found at Swanscombe, including 5 red-listed species such as the Man orchid. It also has locally important populations of reptiles, bats, Water vole and Otter. Please do not allow this wonderful unique habitat to be destroyed.