Home / Environment / Councillor Cries 'Ecocide' Over Kent Plans
Councillor Cries 'Ecocide' Over Kent Plans
1 Jul
Summary
- 100 acres of ancient woodland planned for quarry.
- Controversial plans subject to a KCC cabinet committee.
- Future use of Oaken Wood has been debated since 2014.
A significant portion of ancient woodland, Oaken Wood, is slated for potential transformation into a quarry, igniting a fierce debate. Councillor Stuart Jeffrey has condemned the plans by Kent County Council (KCC) as 'ecocide,' emphasizing the irreversible loss of irreplaceable natural habitats. The proposals, part of KCC's Mineral Sites Plan, aim to secure local sources of building materials.
This issue has been ongoing since 2014, when a neighboring site was approved for commercial extraction. Local conservationists highlight the presence of endangered species like turtle doves and nightjars within the woodland. KCC asserts that any allocation would adhere to stringent planning policies designed to protect ancient woodlands and balance development needs with environmental concerns.
The Galllagher construction group, involved in the adjacent extraction, proposed extensive tree planting in restored areas as part of their plan. The matter is scheduled for review by the growth, environment and transport cabinet committee on July 7th, before potential examination by government inspectors. KCC's priority remains balancing construction material needs with environmental and community protection.
