Because of Wicklesham and Coxwell Pits, Faringdon has given its name to earth science features which are “unique” to our locality. ‘Faringdonensis’ is the Latin descriptor for the Faringdon Sponge Gravels, Faringdon Greensands and even Faringdon Fossils. Palaeontologist M. A. Wilson (1986) states: “Faringdon fossils have attracted scientific attention for centuries. The first published reference to them is found in the museum catalogue by Llywyd (1699).” This remarkable history suggests Faringdon’s palaeontology played an early role in the development of scientific theories of the formation of the earth’s surface, and perhaps, of evolution. In 1986, Wilson recorded his discoveries of one new genus and three new species of ‘Foraminifera’ at Wicklesham Quarry. These fossils have recently come to play a key role in research on climate change. Asst. Professor Miriam Katz, a specialist in Foraminifera writes that they: “can provide us with important information on how rapid changes in temperature can significantly impact ice volume, sea level, and the evolution of life on earth.” “Special Interest” in earth sciences is dynamic. Sites like Wicklesham Quarry are living laboratories for scientists, with a crucial role to play in the development of science, and even a contribution to make towards our own survival on earth. Out of seven ‘Special Interest’ themes Wicklesham is noted for four, reflecting an exceptionally unusual, localised process of marine and landform development and transition. THIS is why Natural England says Wicklesham Quarry is “of great historical importance, and is one of Britain’s richest palaeontological sites.” The national designation of Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSIs) seeks to ensure “their long-term conservation and statutory protection” (JNCC: Common Standards Monitoring Guidance for Earth Science Sites). In our view, this does NOT include concreting over the quarry base and filling it with warehouses! Local people campaigning to PROTECT WICKLESHAM QUARRY FROM DEVELOPMENT have presented the Independent Examiner of Faringdon Neighbourhood Plan with earth science research and data relating to Wicklesham Quarry, and the Common Standards Monitoring Guidance for Earth Science Sites by JNCC. We have also contested Faringdon Council’s claim that only “part of the site” is a SSSI. In fact, Wicklesham and Coxwell Pits SSSI covers 31.59 acres (12.79 ha) - an area larger than the whole of the quarry. This fact is recorded on EUNIS- the European Nature Information Systems website. This time, we are determined to ensure that the examination of Faringdon Neighbourhood Plan is carried out in the light of facts.