by Chris Hunter

chunter@thekmgroup.co.uk

A public inquiry into the future of 81 acres of ancient Kentish woodland has been delayed.

Initially scheduled for February 2012, it is now thought likely the inquiry will be deferred until October of the same year, so that ecological surveys and reports can be updated.

Earlier this year Kent County Council approved Gallagher Aggregates' plan to extend their Hermitage Quarry near Barming into neighbouring Oaken Wood, an area of predominantly chestnut coppice which is designated ancient woodland.

But the scheme was called in by Secretary of State Eric Pickles in July following lobbying by the Kent Messenger, The Woodland Trust, Kent Wildlife Trust and the Save Oaken Wood action group.

The plan also provoked a massive public response, with more than 6,600 people writing directly to the Secretary of State.

Reacting to the latest news, Woodland Trust campaigner, Christina Byrne said: "While we were unsure about the request, since further survey information is unlikely to change the known facts, we were willing to agree to a delay."

The trust estimates the cost of the case to save Oaken Wood to be around £75,000. If you would like more information about Oaken Wood, or to find out how you can help, visitwww.woodlandtrust.org.uk/saveoaken.