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Press Release

Stansted Decision Heralds Untold Environmental Degradation

13 March 2009

The Campaign to Protect Rural England (CPRE) reacted with dismay to the failure this morning (Friday) of the High Court legal challenge to block expansion at Stansted Airport.
The Government's decision in principle to approve Heathrow's third runway was described as 'driving a coach and horses' through London's green plans. However, today's failure of the appeal against Stansted expansion goes much further as it sets a precedent.

CPRE had provided financial support to the challenge because of the important legal principles it raised about protection of the countryside. The legal action challenged three aspects of the Government's planning decision, which were that:

· the increase in noise and damage to tranquillity from extra flights had to be ignored in order to carry out Government policy to increase flying;

· extra flights could be approved without any consideration of the impact on climate change;

· the economic impact on the UK could be disregarded. This has a particular impact on rural areas as domestic tourism provides a financial lifeline.

Ralph Smyth, CPRE's Senior Transport Campaigner said:

'Today's decision flies a jumbo jet through commitments to reduce noise and greenhouse gas emissions. The Government can't keep on relying on its outdated aviation policy, which is damaging countryside, the climate and the economy. The recent drop in passenger numbers travelling by air provides a perfect opportunity for an urgent rethink.'



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Campaign to Protect Rural England

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