Common Frog
© Guy Edwardes

“Dark day for nature” as £2m bike factory plans approved

Kent Wildlife Trust has expressed deep disappointment and serious concerns for wildlife following the approval of a planning application for a new bike factory by manufacturer Brompton.

The factory, which will be built on the South Willesborough Dykes Local Wildlife Site, was approved on Wednesday, January 15th, despite widespread concern over the impact on this ecologically significant area.

While Brompton has announced plans to invest £100 million in creating new wetland habitat as part of the development, Kent Wildlife Trust has say that such measures cannot compensate for the loss of an irreplaceable natural corridor. This site, part of the Ashford Green Corridor, serves as a critical haven for a diverse array of wildlife, including protected species like dormice, great crested newts, and several bat species, as well as numerous birds and aquatic invertebrates.

Daubenton's Bat - Dale Sutton (2020VISION). ©Dale Sutton/2020VISION

Planning and Policy Officer, Emma Waller says: 

“It's a dark day for nature as Ashford Borough Council has approved plans for a bike factory on the precious South Willesborough Dykes Local Wildlife Site. This wetland habitat, a vital part of the Ashford Green Corridor, is home to dormice, great crested newts, seven bat species, 32 breeding bird species, and 92 aquatic invertebrate species, it's an ecological treasure now facing severe and irreversible harm.

“Despite its undeniable value, the voices of conservationists and the plight of wildlife were disregarded in favour of a development celebrated for job creation, even though the company behind it faces well-documented financial instability. Instead of addressing these concerns or the project’s questionable feasibility—highlighted by its puzzling provision of only 30 parking spaces, the media has largely ignored the devastating impact this decision will have on local biodiversity.

“The planning process consistently downplayed the ecological importance of this habitat, disregarding its protection within Ashford's Local Plan, and the vital role it plays in supporting wildlife. Once again, nature has been sidelined, losing even the small spaces set aside for it in favour of human interests.

“This decision is not just disappointing—it’s a stark reminder of the ongoing battle for the future of our natural world. We will not stand idly by. We will continue to fight for wildlife, amplify its silent voice, and hold decision-makers accountable. If we don’t, who will?”

Read Emma's responses here: