Representation by Stephen Perfect
- Date submitted
- 31 March 2021
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
The compelling case for conservation of the Swanscombe Peninsula's varied habitats and huge number of rare species is borne out by the recent granting of SSSI status. The destruction of this very important site cannot be justified, especially when it would be caused by the construction of something as frivolous and trivial as the proposed theme park. Wildlife is in continuing decline, including a massive reduction in numbers of insects in recent decades. People are becoming increasingly aware of, and alarmed by, the colossal adverse human impact on the natural environment. The notion of rewilding has become popular as a result of this widespread concern. The Swanscombe Peninsula's brownfield sites' reversion to a more natural state is a good example of what is in effect a highly successful rewilding, albeit without any human intention or intervention. It must now be protected from the proposed development of the site. There has never been more need for nature conservation and this must include retention of, and support for, all SSSIs. Future generations will look back at this planning application with anger and sadness if Swanscombe Peninsula's rich and varied wildlife is quite needlessly lost.