London Luton Airport Operations Ltd received a total of 1,360 responses from local, national and international businesses, local residents, local chambers of commerce, trade unions, airline partners, leisure and business passengers.
Almost two-thirds supported the airport’s development proposals because of the economic benefits to the region, creation of more than 5,000 jobs, private inward investment and improvements to the airport’s infrastructure.
However, 28% voiced concerns at LLAOL’s plans, in particular at the potential impact of increased noise and additional night flights. A total 94 respondents said they were undecided on the masterplan.
Protesters dismiss the number of responses as “derisory” and argue that, of those from the general public, 75pc are against the airport’s plans.
LLAOL has used the feedback to amend its planning application. It has added two further mitigation measures to the six new noise initiatives it has already proposed. They are:
- The introduction of a new quota and aircraft movement limit for night-time flights to bring London Luton Airport in line with other designated UK airports;
- A reduction in noise violation limits and the introduction of a fining system for aircraft breaching these limits, effective from 2014/2015 rather than the original plan of 2018.
The plan includes access improvements, extensions to the terminal and mid- and long-term car parks, six new aircraft stands and a multi-story car park linked to the terminal building. Consultation continues until February 18.
London Luton Airport managing director Glyn Jones said: “LLAOL has listened to the local community and has put in place a robust plan to deliver a balanced, sustainable development which offers a number of significant economic and social benefits, including the creation of approximately 5,100 new jobs, increasing value to the local economy, and improving the built environment of the airport.”
But HALE campaigner Tim Moss said the night noise quota levels were being proposed at 30% above the existing level yet the airport was arguing that a 60% increase in the number of flights would not increase noise. He added: “It simply does not add up.”
A full report on the consultation is contained in LLAOL’s Statement of Community Involvement and is included in the planning application that LLAOL submitted to Luton Borough Council in November. http://www.eplan.luton.gov.uk (Application reference: 12/01400/FUL).
