Environmentalists Fight to Prevent Destruction of Rare Bat Habitat

12.00.00am GMT Wed 18th Mar 2009

Wildlife Haven - Martin Way Allotments

A wildlife area inhabited by endangered birds and bats is under threat from Merton Council, who it's feared, plan to clear some of the land against the wishes of plot-holders.

The wildlife area which lies at the back of the Martin Way Allotments in Raynes Park was taken out of allocation many years ago, and is a breeding site for a range of birds including song thrushes which nest in the bramble, while the mature trees are believed to have bats roosting in them.

Environmental campaigner, Jovita Kaunang, of Merton Park says: 'This land has been undisturbed for thirty years and has become top quality habitat, which must be protected. The Council will argue that this is necessary due to the waiting list for plots, but still doesn't make use of current, tenanted, but long-term unused plots throughout its allotment sites.

She added: 'This decision is entirely undemocratic - most of the Martin Way plot-holders have not been either informed or consulted about the plan. We are now petitioning Merton Council for a proper, open and publicised consultation on any plans for our "Wildlife Area".'

The Bat Conservation Trust supports the campaign. Philip Briggs, Monitoring Projects Manager said: 'Such bat foraging areas are rare in urban areas and need to be preserved. I would like to stress the importance of the Martin Way wildlife site to Merton Council and hope they will act in the best interests of this protected animal.'

Shas Sheehan, Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Campaigner, said: 'Merton Council must recognise that it would be an act of extreme negligence on its part if this haven for urban wildlife were to be destroyed. I thoroughly commend Ms Kaunang's efforts to resist such action and wholeheartedly support her campaign.'