Expect more noise at Coventry Airport if passenger flight plans rejected
18.05.06
People living near Coventry Airport could have to live with even more noise and pollution if plans for a new terminal are rejected, according to an aviation expert. Grant Riddick supports the views of the Baginton site's managers, who claim they would have to increase the number of freight flights if they fail in their bid to handle two million passengers per year.
Mr Riddick was hired by the airport to present evidence at an ongoing inquiry at Leamington town hall into whether the 10,000 sq m building should be approved. He told the inqury: 'The alternative development scenarios will generate aircraft movement rates which exceed those anticipated as a result of the development itself - and, in the case of business aviation, particularly during peak periods.'
Birmingham Airport has been among the strongest opponents of Coventry's plans, fearing they will undermine its own government-backed expansion by cluttering the air between the two with dozens more passenger jets. But Mr Riddick claims Birmingham would have at least as much to fear if its neighbour is unsuccessful with its aim of receiving planning permission for a new terminal.
He said: 'The resulting situation would generate a significantly greater effect on the air traffic movement aspects. This serves to demonstrate that the question of the interaction between Birmingham and Coventry air traffic is a matter which arises in any event, even if the proposal for a terminal is rejected.'
And Mr Riddick believes changes in the management of the airspace around Baginton - which would result from permission being granted - will benefit nearby residents, as aircraft would use a more gradual method of descent.
He said: 'This procedure minimises changes of engine pitch and thus noise disturbance. It also generates fuel savings. These are significant benefits for both Coventry and Birmingham which are likely to be lost if the planning permission were refused.'
Mr Riddick's views will be questioned for almost an entire day by objectors next month. The inquiry is expected to continue until July, whereupon the inspectors will compile a report upon which the government will decide whether to grant permission for the terminal.
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