18/3/2008

Local News in Fleet

Tory MPs clash over airport decision

Gerald Howarth, Tory MP for Aldershot, Farnborough, Blackwater and Yateley, has been a staunch supporter of TAG throughout the appeal process.

The qualified pilot said the inspector’s report highlighted the airport’s economic benefits to the town and the wider area and was “overall the right decision”.

“I have always argued that Farnborough provides a first class facility for the business community that uses it,” he said.

“The inspector’s assertion that Farnborough Airport is extremely important confirms everything that has been said. He also established that there is a need for additional weekend movements.

“Having walked around the residential areas, his observation that the traffic noise generally masks the noise of aircraft movements is interesting.

“I quite accept that there will be some people who will be disappointed, but they cannot come to any other conclusion that the inspector has made a very careful and thorough investigation.”

However, his Conservative colleague Michael Gove, MP for Surrey Heath, was disappointed.

“Throughout, the clearly expressed will of local people was to maintain the balance between keeping Farnborough Airport viable and keeping weekends free from additional disruption,” Mr Gove said.

“I am disappointed that local feeling has been overturned. I now hope that TAG, who are a valued employer, will recognise that for Surrey Heath residents, who will face additional disruption, an acknowledgement of that impact on this decision on them would be welcome.

“I respect the TAG management, even as I disagree with the need for increased weekend flying. But these responsible and reasonable people need to know these actions will impact on the quality of my constituents’ weekends and I hope that will be reflected.”

First printed in: The News and Mail Series

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