Kent Wildlife Trust calls on public to stand up for Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve against major development threat

Protecting vital links for wildlife 

Kent Wildlife Trust is concerned that development on land north of the reserve could fundamentally change the landscape and weaken one of the few remaining connections between Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve and the wider countryside. 

These open landscape links allow wildlife to move between habitats, helping species adapt and thrive in the face of increasing environmental pressures. Losing this connection could leave the reserve increasingly enclosed by development and create a more isolated landscape for wildlife. 

Protecting the River Darent 

The proposed allocation also includes land within areas of high flood risk, including functional floodplain. Kent Wildlife Trust is concerned that large-scale development could increase polluted runoff and sediment entering the River Darent, damaging water quality and the wildlife that depends on this rare chalk stream. Development could also reduce the floodplain's natural ability to store water, increasing flood risk for both wildlife and local communities. 

Managing pressure on wildlife 

The concept masterplan proposes a new northern entrance directly into the reserve from the development. With more than 5,000 new residents living within walking distance, Kent Wildlife Trust is concerned this would significantly increase pressure on sensitive habitats. 

Currently, visitors arrive through the visitor centre, where staff can provide guidance on responsible access. A new unmanaged entrance could make it harder to protect wildlife from disturbance, littering and other anti-social behaviour. 

Emma Waller, Senior Planning Officer at Kent Wildlife Trust, said: 

"Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve is one of Kent's most important places for wildlife, supporting thousands of species and providing an extraordinary opportunity for people to experience nature. But the reserve does not exist in isolation - the surrounding countryside plays a vital role in allowing wildlife to move, connect and thrive. 

"Whilst we recognise the need for new homes, we strongly believe in the right development in the right place. We're concerned these proposals could have far-reaching consequences for the reserve, the River Darent and the wider landscape that wildlife depends on. Once these vital connections are lost, they are incredibly difficult to restore. 

"We're asking everyone who values this special place to respond to the consultation and help ensure nature has a voice in decisions that will shape this landscape for generations to come." 

Help shape an alternative vision 

Kent Wildlife Trust believes there is an opportunity to create a better future for this landscape - one where people and wildlife can thrive together. It is inviting residents and nature supporters to complete its Preserve Sevenoaks Wildlife Reserve questionnaire, sharing what they value most about the reserve and surrounding countryside. Responses will help shape the campaign and support the development of an alternative vision. Find out more about the Preserve Sevenoaks Reserve campaign and compete the questionnaire here

Have your say  

Residents can respond to the Sevenoaks District Council Local Plan Regulation 19 consultation by completing the online consultation form on the council’s consultation webpage or by submitting a detailed written response by email to [email protected]