Plans for night flights on hold

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A report carried out by an airport research company has raised concerns over possible noise from planes using Manston airport. The study, commissioned by Thanet council in response to an application for regular night flights from Manston, says even with restrictions on night time plane movements and a sound insulation scheme for properties "the predicted number of people exposed to significant night-time noise is not justified by the number of passengers and freight activity that are to benefit from the proposals".

The report by Bureau Veritas, said people in Ramsgate could be exposed to an average noise of 57db each hour across eight hours – equivalent to having a television on loudly. Bureau Veritas has recommended that this noise level be reduced. Thanet council, which has to consider the request from Manston, asked its owners, Infratil, to provide more detail on how many planes could be flying at night and what types of craft they could be.

Mr Bayford said it is unlikely that the public consultation will start before Christmas:

"The council remains supportive of the airport and maximising the employment opportunities it can create and sustain, but this cannot be at any price for local residents. We need to balance the economic benefits carefully against environmental considerations. The proposed night-time flying policy doesn't fully allow us to do that, as it leaves uncertainties that need to be clarified before we consult the public."

Manston chief executive Charles Buchanan said:

"We are disappointed that our proposals are not to be considered at this time. However, we agree with the council that it is vital that the public have a full understanding of the issues and implications of our proposals."

The report highlights recommendations set out by the government in its Planning Policy Guidance, Note 24 which offers planning guidance to local authorities to minimise night noise. It says that in areas where noise regularly exceeds 82db several times an hour they should have development restrictions. A noise monitor in Chapel Place, Ramsgate recorded single noise events of over 82db for every month, except August this year. Mr Buchanan said that was an average over the month, not a constant.

Infratil's application asks for a "quota count" or number of points to be allowed for night flights at the airport. As planes land or take off, points are used up depending on the type of plane and noise created. Infratil wanted 1,995 quota count which Bureau Veritas predicted would mean 7.7 flights at night by 2018. Mr Buchannan said:

"If we flew QC2 at night that would mean seven flights but this falls inside this and it is less than one per hour. The guideline says 82db several times an hour.This is not saying several times an hour and I don't think we will. If we did, then we will have to look at the PPG24. It is vital that the public understand the complications. We are committed to seeking all ways to develop the airport, generating employment and contributing to the growth of Thanet's economy."

No new dates have been set for the public consultation to start on proposals for night flights.

By saul leese saul.leese@krnmedia.co.uk