Representation by Claire McQuillam
- Date submitted
- 26 March 2021
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
I object very strongly to this development going ahead. Not only is a development of this kind not needed in the area but the devastating impact that it will have on the local flora and fauna is heartbreaking. The area has been been given the status of SSSI for a very important reason. The area is home to a plethora of wildlife some of which is only found in this location and one other: the distinguished jumping spider. The bird life is varied and a great place for ornithologists and wildlife photographers. Amazing photos from the area are a daily occurrence on social media. Lockdown has also shown that green areas are vital to mental health and general well-being. The marshes are frequented by locals and those from further afield on a daily basis. They offer people the opportunity to reconnect with nature and observe the great variety of species that call it home. The area already has the highest air pollution levels in the country and an increase in traffic and footfall would only lead to an increase in air, light and noise pollution. The increase in traffic will only lead to further congestion and bringing the area to a standstill. This is already a nightmare for residents living in such close proximity to the Dartford Crossing. Also this development will not bring long term employment to the area especially as long established businesses are destroyed in order to build this monstrosity. The low paid employment on offer will not make it feasible for park employees to rent or buy in the area. And who would want to live in an area which will be permanently congested and bright and noisy. Not to mention the increase in vermin infestation from the displaced rodents from the marshes. I have lived in the area for a long time and I have witnessed green areas slowly disappearing to more and more developments. I have also witnessed increased flooding in the area as developers build more houses on flood plains. The marshes play a vital role in reducing flooding and, for the bigger picture, reduce the risk of London being at a greater risk of flooding. These comments are just the tip of the iceberg regarding the destruction that this development will bring. We cannot replicate nature as well as nature can look after itself. The flora and fauna will take years to recover if ever. Only when we have destroyed everything will humans realise that money cannot replace nature and the environment and how much we rely on nature.