‘Devastated’ campaigners now consider legal review

Campaigners may be licking their wounds but they are refusing to back down as they consider launching a legal challenge against the decision. Lut Stewart, from the Graveney Rural Environment Action Team, said: “It seems to us they worked backwards, thinking ‘this is to be approved’. It’s devastating to think all our arguments have been marginalised - yet we’re not going to roll over now. “After two-and-a-half years you may think campaign fatigue could set in, but this decision has got people more involved. We’ve always said it’s a David vs Goliath battle and we all know who wins that fight in the end.

“A number of options will be looked at - including launching a judicial review.”

Legal teams acting for campaigners will now pore over the approval documents to see if a judicial review - which analyses the legality of the decision to rubber-stamp the plans - could be launched. If there’s a review, the project will be stalled until a decision is made.

The Campaign to Protect Rural England group has blasted the outcome as “appalling”, while Faversham MP Helen Whately says she is “disappointed”.

She said: “We put forward a strong and positive message about how to make these marshes a better place for wildlife – but clearly it wasn’t enough to win the argument. “Many people will be shocked and deeply frustrated by this decision. The developers need to recognise the level of concern and work more closely with the community.” Tim Valentine, cabinet member for environment at Swale council, added: “This development is almost the size of Faversham itself and would be a dominant feature alongside one of the most important coastal wetland sites for migrating birds in the world. We will now take some time to consider the options available to us.”

Opponents are considering launching a legal challenge