Robert Marshall-Andrews

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No airport @ Cliffe

As you know the decision on airport capacity has now been delayed approximately to the end of the year as a result of the inclusion of Gatwick as an option. The Government's current re-consultation on the Future Development of Air Transport in the South East will close at the end of the month.

There are clear signs that we are winning this battle. There is a growing body of opinion that the projected scale of air traffic is grossly excessive. As I have always maintained they are based upon the level of taxation that is both unrealistic and environmentally damaging. I am pleased to see that the Government's most influential think-tank has now adopted this view.

During April the Department for Transport published a study it had commissioned on the potential safety risks from birds at and around the proposed airport on the Cliffe Marshes. The Government's own report concluded for Cliffe Airport to operate safely a comprehensive and aggressive bird management programme would have to be in place. Most damaging to those promoting the Airport was the second conclusion that even with world class management and mitigation measures in place, the hazard proposed by birds is so severe that it would be higher than at any other UK Airport.

Last month saw BAA, the operator of nearly all of the major UK airports, submit its view to government that a new airport at Cliffe should not be regarded as a candidate, because of a) the considerable complexities of developing a wholly new site, b) serious doubts wither it could be commercially viable and 3) the serious environmental concerns.

I, and my fellow Medway Members of Parliament, have continued to lobby and pressure Government ministers and are efforts are enhanced by the support of communities and individuals. I remain optimistic that we will, together, defeat this proposal.

I do appreciate that this is a time of great uncertainty for many people both on the Hoo Peninsula and within the Towns. I am, however, convinced that we will succeed together in protecting our environment and precious local communities.