by Sarah Morris

smorris@thekmgroup.co.uk

Twenty seven acres of land in the Medway valley have been bought for just £1.

The land, at Marsh Road in Halling, is home to a number of different species of wildlife and public footpaths.

Building giant, Lafarge has transferred the freehold land to Halling Parish Council for the symbolic fee.

Speaking on the land transfer, chairman of Halling Parish Council Daryl Palmer said: "The council is grateful for the close working relationship with Lafarge on all aspects of village matters.

"We are particularly grateful for the opportunity to take ownership of this piece of important land for the village.

"We look forward to continuing this close liaison and hope to be able to work with Lafarge and Kent Wildlife Trust and gain from their experience on improving the habitat for the wildlife that makes this its home, and to enhance the area for the people of Halling to enjoy."

David Simms, Land and Planning Director for Lafarge Cement said: "Lafarge (formerly Blue Circle) has been an active member of the community for many years and we are keen to keep up our close relationship.

"We were very pleased to donate this land for the benefit of the people of Halling, which completes verbal undertakings given to Bob Smith the then chairman of Halling Parish Council about 20 years or so ago, and trust that the local community continues to enjoy this natural habitat."