Representation by Barbara Spence
- Date submitted
- 18 March 2021
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
I am concerned that the UK is not properly recognising our biodiversity emergency. The proposal to build a theme park on such an outstanding site for wildlife is a prime example of this failure. I am an amateur botanist and, as such, am particularly interested in the conservation of plants. Swanscombe Marshes, with its wide variety of habitats, supports a very rich assemblage of plants, including rarities such as Man Orchid, Hairy Vetchling, Narrow-leaved Bird's-foot-trefoil, Narrow-leaved Everlasting-pea and Golden Samphire, to name but a few. It is also a relatively peaceful area in which to walk and experience nature in general. I am also aware that the site is rich in invertebrates, including threatened species. Its recent designation as an SSSI underlines its importance. Surely, this is not the place for a theme park?