Sally Smith
Kent Wildlife Trust firmly refutes developers claims saying the only involvement the organisation has had with the project has been in lodging formal objections in 2021, 2023, and 2024, citing ecological concerns.
Adding to their concern, the Trust are keen to highlight that Cromers Wood Nature Reserve, managed by Kent Wildlife Trust, has been included in some of the applicant’s materials as part of efforts to make the scheme appear ‘greener’. The Trust stresses that the nature reserve is entirely separate from the proposed development and that the developer has neither sought nor obtained permission to include it in their illustrative materials.
"The inclusion of our name and our nature reserve in this way is wholly inappropriate and misleading," continued Emma Waller. "This could easily give decision-makers, stakeholders, and the public the incorrect impression that we support or have contributed to this development, when in fact we strongly oppose it."
Given the seriousness of this misrepresentation, Kent Wildlife Trust is calling on the Planning Inspector to:
- Formally acknowledge that the Trust has not engaged with the applicant and that statements to the contrary are inaccurate.
- Ensure this misrepresentation does not influence decision-making.
- Recognise that the inclusion of Cromers Wood Nature Reserve in the applicant’s materials is misleading and does not imply any association with Kent Wildlife Trust.
Kent Wildlife Trust remains committed to protecting wildlife and wild spaces in Kent and urges transparency and accuracy in the planning process. The charity stand with the Five Parishes Campaign Group in opposing the plans.
How you can help
- Those wishing to support the campaign can donate to the Five Parishes fundraiser.
- Sign up for Kent Wildlife Trust’s ‘Speak Up For Nature’ newsletter.
- Join the Trust as a member.