The Cory Fields (or Borax Fields as they are locally known), support a number of nationally declining bird species including the red-listed Skylark and Ringed Plover which breed on this land. In addition they provide foraging habitat for Kestrel, Barn Owl, Linnet and numerous other bird species that breed on the adjacent Crossness Nature Reserve in south-east London. The area also supports Britain's fastest declining mammal, the Water Vole, and the bumblebee that is so rare that it is only present in 5 UK populations: the Shrill Carder Bee.

Cory Environmental have submitted a planning application to build four-storey high data storage facilities on these two fields. This will result in the complete loss of the open mosaic habitat and the species that depend on them.

As these fields are located within the gated boundary of Crossness Nature Reserve, either side of the reserve's access path, this will put the entrance smack bang in the middle of these unsightly buildings, further creating that hemmed-in feeling as the marshes continue to be nibbled away at by development. This will deter visitors and provide an unsightly entrance for all the community and education events that take place at this wonderful site.

Please sign this petition so that Cory Environmental, and the London Borough of Bexley who have the power to refuse or grant permission to demolish this important breeding ground, can see how strongly people feel about the loss of biodiversity here.

This development could result in the complete loss of breeding Skylarks in the borough. We must not allow this to happen! Please sign this petition to show your support. We would also urge you to write a formal objection to developmentcontrol@bexley.gov.uk outlining your concerns.