Representation by Kevin Herring
- Date submitted
- 25 March 2021
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
I am a local resident of Greenhithe and, as such, I frequently visit Swanscombe Marshes with my dogs. The area in which I live is becoming increasingly built up and very little open space remains. A walk to Swanscombe Marshes provides a welcome retreat from the bustle of living in a heavily-populated area as well as from the noise and pollution caused by the volume of traffic in this area. Given that this area is amongst the most polluted regions of the Uk, having a local green area that can provide some respite is essential to people’s mental and physical wellbeing. You will be aware that Swanscombe Marshes has recently been designated a a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI). The area is home to over 250 species of invertebrates of conservation concern, including one species that is found on only one other site in the UK. Ironically, the other site is in Thurrock across the river, an area that has its own development issues. As well as the important invertebrate species, Swanscombe Marshes is home a wide variety of birds and mammals. Many of the birds that make their home on Swanscombe Marshes are of conservation concern, including 12 Species of Principal Importance such as Marsh Harriers, Nightingales and Bearded Tit. I have seen many of these birds myself whilst walking on the marshes. Whilst I haven’t personally seen them, I am told that there are also water voles and otters on the Marshes as well as bats (which I have seen). One of the great pleasures afforded by Swanscombe Marshes is to stop and listen to the bird song and the chorus from the frogs and toads on the water. All of this will be lost if this development is allowed to proceed. Swanscombe Marshes should be left alone as a local resource for humans and a habitat for a variety of wildlife.