Theme Park Could Go Ahead Despite Site's Protected Status

Swanscombe peninsula is designated as an SSSI but campaigners fear it is not enough to save the wildlife haven from proposed development.

- James Fair

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.