An area of wetlands and grassland described by the Government as “abundant in wildlife and with huge benefits for people” is still not safe from being turned into a theme park, despite being recognised as a Site of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI), campaigners are warning.
Natural England announced in March that 250ha of the Swanscombe Peninsula, near Gravesend in Kent, had been designated as an SSSI because of its rare invertebrates.
These include more than 200 species considered as being of conservation importance, most notably the distinguished jumping spider – only found in two places in the UK. The peninsula is also home to breeding marsh harriers and bearded tits as well as rare plants.
This story is from the Spring 2021 edition of BBC Wildlife.
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This story is from the Spring 2021 edition of BBC Wildlife.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
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