Representation by Susan Buckingham
- Date submitted
- 26 March 2021
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
The plants and associated insects, birds and wildlife that have developed over the years on Swanscombe Peninsula represent an immensely valuable asset as evidenced by Natural England’s recommendation of SSSI status and as such the site requires full protection from development. Without doubt the NSIP submission must be reviewed. Open mosaic habitat on previously developed land (OMHPDL) at Swanscombe provides a major refuge for many species of plants whose habitats elsewhere continue to decline due to development and agriculture and nitrogen enrichment. Thirteen nationally scarce vascular plant species have been recorded there including Man Orchid, listed Endangered and Yellow Vetchling, Vulnerable. Both are species which require warmth and open nutrient-poor soils. These conditions are freely provided at Swanscombe and they allow vegetation to maintain itself at pioneer or early succession stage. Coastal species at Swanscombe include scarce and Vulnerable Slender Hare’s-ear and Bithynian Vetch. Round-leaved Wintergreen which is very scarce in Kent occurs on a shaded chalk embankment. The mixture of habitats and the presence of impressive numbers of plants, invertebrates, breeding birds, reptiles and mammals of conservation concern surely constitute all that is required for the area to receive complete protection from development of any kind. Covid 19 and lockdowns appear to have increased public awareness of the value of open space, and the presence of wildlife. It is my opinion that the benefits to be gained by the general public by having Swanscombe Peninsula protected as a remarkably diverse example of Thames Estuary habitat far outweigh any that a theme park might offer. Sue Buckingham, BSBI co-recorder for VC15(East Kent)