Representation by Daniel Greenwood
- Date submitted
- 31 March 2021
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
I've been visiting Swanscombe Marshes for recreation since 2015. It's unlike many landscapes in southern England due to its rich history and resulting mosaic of habitats and landscape types. I have not visited anywhere else like it in the UK. The case has been made very well by environmental organisations regarding Swanscombe's diverse ecology and rare species such as the Critically Endangered Distinguished jumping spider (Attulus distinguendus). My personal view is that this should be enough to understand that the place can't be built upon and no 'net-gain' of biodiversity is applicable here. Swanscombe's designation as SSSI shows its significance, though it does not recognise its value to people through recreation and public enjoyment, as well as the financial and economic impact from access to such special places. Thank you for the opportunity to comment.