Designation as SSSI welcomed by campaigners hoping to save Thames marshland habitat
Marshes, pasture and reedbeds beside the Thames where developers want to build a theme park have been listed as a site of special scientific interest (SSSI) in recognition of the rare and diverse insect life.
The decision by Natural England to recognise the national importance of Swanscombe peninsula, which is home to 1,991 species of invertebrates, more than any known site in the country, was welcomed by campaigners hoping to save the partly brownfield site from the £3.5bn London Resort.