Representation by Philip Key
- Date submitted
- 14 March 2021
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
I believe the application should be rejected on the grounds of the damage it would do to the Swanscombe Peninsula, which Natural England has recommended be made a SSSI. The site consists of a rare mix of habitats due to its former uses and supports a range of species of conservation concern. These include over 250 invertebrate species such as the critically endangered Distinguished Jumping Spider, which is only found at one other site in the UK. There are also 15 red-listed bird species including Nightingale, Bearded Tit, Marsh Harrier and Black Redstart, and 13 scarce vascular plant species such as the Man Orchid. It is also important for reptiles and for mammals such as Bats, Otters and Water Voles. Given that we are already facing catastrophic declines of biodiversity, it is my opinion that we must protect this site and not sacrifice it to a theme park that is non-essential and could be built at a more suitable site.