Representation by David Griffin
- Date submitted
- 15 March 2021
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
I intend to outline my concerns about Swanscombe Marshes being developed because of the rare nature of this costal habitat, and the wildlife that it supports. As I am not local I am not able with certainty to comment on the impact it will have on the local people who use it for various recreational activities, however it would appear from comments made on social media that it is used for walking, running cycling, and for getting closer to nature, the benefits of which have been widely reported over the past 12 months. The Swanscombe Peninsular supports a large range of wildlife, some of which is extremely rare or in serious decline. This is mainly due to it's location, and the fact that it is a rare costal habitat. Swanscombe is home to over 200 invertebrate species which are of conservation concern, including one species of jumping spider which is found in only one other location in the country. The area also supports some of the rarer British breeding bird species, such as marsh harrier, bearded tit, black redstart, and nightingale. Nightingale have suffered a 90% decline since the 1970's, so every site where they are found has become extremely important for the survival of this species as a breeding bird in the UK. Plants on the peninsula include marsh orchid and 5 other red listed species. Mammal wise the peninsula is home to water voles, which have decline by over 90% over the last 30 years. Otters and several species of bat can also be seen there. There is also a locally important population of reptiles. Due to some of the species mentioned above, and the rarity of the habitat, Natural England have recommended that the area be given SSSI statues. In summary I feel that the Swanscombe Peninsular is the wrong place for development of any sort, because of the rarity of the habitat, and the wildlife that is supports. The natural word, nationally and globally is coming under increasing pressure for a number of reasons, habitat loss being a significant one. This means areas like Swanscombe are becoming increasingly imports, not only for the benefit of the wildlife, but also the people who will enjoy this green space.