Representation by Susan Taylor
- Date submitted
- 13 March 2021
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
Swanscombe Marshes provides vital habitat for so many species of mammals, insects and plants. Many of these are very rare and on the Red List or critically endangered species list. The marshes have been identified as an SSSI, a coastal mosaic comprising of grasslands, wetlands and scrub, it's hugely important for biodiversity and eco systems that are necessary for all of us to thrive. There are jumping spiders, this is one of two sites in England that have them, rare bees, wasps, otters, water voles, Nightingales, Marsh Harriers, to name a few. The marshes provide so much pleasure to not only local people but visitors, this pandemic has highlighted how we all need these places to promote physical and mental health and well being. The marshes allow people to escape the stress of life and how connecting with nature produces a multitude of health benefits In a time where we need to protect our fast declining wildlife, in a time where we know the importance and value of nature, surely we should be doing everything we can to save these marshes. I cannot see how a theme park is justified on such an environmentally valuable piece of land, a park that will increase pollution of every kind. I sincerely hope the value of this land for necessary wildlife, biodiversity and it's eco systems, and the welfare of local people and others, is hugely considered and common sense will prevail in not allowing an unnecessary theme park destroy it all.