Stop KCC destroying Oaken Wood before 16 July
Link to petition: https://digitallibdems.typeform.com/to/FFuZtzIi
Cllr Tony Harwood on why Oaken Wood matters
https://www.facebook.com/share/v/18tyVaDWQU/
"This is Oaken Wood — and it's Ancient Woodland, land that's been here for hundreds of years. That's not something we can replace once it's gone. Yet it's under threat — to be dug up for road stone that can be sourced elsewhere. On 16 July, Kent County Council could sign away this hugely important natural and national asset for good. We can't let that happen. Sign the petition now and help us stop it." — Cllr Tony Harwood, Cabinet Member for Planning Policy and Management, Maidstone Borough Council
What's happening
Hermitage Quarry is seeking to expand into Oaken Wood (also known as Barming Wood) to extract Ragstone for road building, including for projects such as the Lower Thames Crossing. But this stone can be sourced from other sites — Oaken Wood cannot be replaced.
Oaken Wood is classified as Ancient Woodland, some of it dating back centuries. It supports rare heathland habitat and species found almost nowhere else in the area. Once destroyed, Ancient Woodland is gone forever — it cannot be recreated or offset.
What we're asking KCC to do
Kent County Council is set to make a decision on the future of this site on 16 July. We're asking the Council to reject the quarry expansion and protect Oaken Wood for future generations.
What you can do
Sign the petition — it takes 30 seconds, and every signature strengthens the case before the 16 July decision.
Then help us spread the word:
- Share this page with friends and family in Maidstone and Barming
- Share Tony's video on Facebook and other social media https://www.facebook.com/share/v/18tyVaDWQU/
The clock is ticking. Please sign and share before 16 July.
👉 Sign the petition now https://digitallibdems.typeform.com/to/FFuZtzIi
