Representation by Caroline Day
- Date submitted
- 15 March 2021
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
I am writing as someone who does not live in the area but is concerned about Swanscombe since it homes species of regional and national significance which will be adversely affected by development. Swanscombe is a unique open mosaic of coastal habitats, grasslands, scrub and wetlands. Whilst developers often cite brownfield sites as preferable to Green Belt sites for development, in this case the fact the site is 'brownfield' is in many ways misleading since it has developed as a critically important habitat for many species. With a large number of wild species in dramatic decline, it is imperative that habitat loss is brought to a halt. Natural England have recommended Swanscombe be declared a Site of Special Scientific Interest which recognises it's unique value. We must protect our most important wildlife sites like this from being lost forever. Swanscombe Marshes support 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. Therefore, the site must be assessed in terms of its national significance and value, not just it's worth as a local recreational destination. 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. Additionally, it also has locally important populations of reptiles, bats, Water vole and Otter. I urge you to take into account the viewpoints of those outside the immediate area who wish to preserve the unique habitats and wildlife of Swanscombe for generations to come.The whole area must be safeguarded from a development which could be easily accommodated elsewhere, on a site without such value to biodiversity.