A wildlife group that is based in Marlow have expressed their concerns over the film set that has been put up near the Spade Oak Nature Reserve.

At the end of September/start of October, equipment was seen near the beauty spot which got residents pondering over what will take place in Little Marlow.

Unconfirmed reports suggest that the set could be used for the latest Star Wars film which is due to be released in December 2022.

READ MORE: Concerns grow at the Little Marlow film set near Spade Oak Nature Reserve

However, over the last six weeks, more equipment and machinery have been installed which has caused those who live in the area to say that the set ‘is in the wrong place’.

Now, Wild Marlow, a group of animal and plant enthusiasts who are based in the town, believe that the film set will have a ‘negative impact on wildlife, including protected species’ in the area.

An expert from their lengthy statement read: “We are deeply concerned over the future of the wildlife in and around the Spade Oak Lake area in Little Marlow.

“Temporary permission has been requested for continued use of the site for film-making purposes between May 1, 2021 and November 1, 2021.

“Currently, an extensive building site is under construction near the lake, including huge marquees and parking in the adjacent fields.

“Objections from local residents mention a great deal of light, noise and vibration disturbance from vehicles travelling along the normally quiet road where the footpath crosses, day and night.

“Despite this, and objections including our own and from the Bucks, Berks, & Oxon Wildlife Trust, Little Marlow Parish Council supports the amended application.

“We believe there are and will continue to be significant negative impacts on wildlife, including protected species, as well as on the surrounding natural environment and habitats if the application is approved.

READ MORE: Huge film set built in Little Marlow near Spade Oak Nature Reserve

“There will also be a clear net loss in biodiversity if the plan goes ahead.

“We are particularly concerned with the following:

• roosting and foraging bats (European Protected Species)

• badgers

• wintering and breeding birds, especially on the ex-quarry gravel area including the little ringed plover; a bird listed on Schedule 1 of the Wildlife and Countryside Act, 1981 (as amended) (protected from disturbance whilst nesting)

• amphibians

• reptiles

• otters (European Protected Species)

“The longer this development is allowed to continue on the site, the greater the damage will be.

READ MORE: Little Marlow film set near Spade Oak Nature Reserve could stay for three years

“The area is also identified as a Country Park within the adopted Local Plan 2019 and emerging Local Plan, with policies specifically for the protection of the environment and amenity value of the area (RUR4).

“This application has an adverse impact on both the recreational opportunity and the biodiversity of the country park, thereby not complying with local planning policy.

“We are calling on Bucks County Council to deny the application on these grounds and will continue to lobby for the right decision.”

To read Buckinghamshire Council's response, click here. 

It is alleged that the film set is to be used for the new Star Wars film, which is due to be released in December 2022.

We have contacted Disney for a comment.