Representation by Newcater (Newcater)
- Date submitted
- 14 June 2023
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
We strongly oppose this expansion due to: Increased pollution, noise and disturbances (such as loss of sleep) from flights to and from Luton Airport. Increased pollution, noise and disturbances from road traffic to and from Luton Airport. Increased congestion and queues along New Airport Way and at the Junction 10 slip roads. Destruction of Wigmore Valley Park County Wildlife site. Air travel is a significant contributor to greenhouse gas emissions and climate change. Increasing the capacity of the airport would lead to a rise in carbon emissions, further exacerbating the already critical global warming situation. It would also directly impact the health of all people living and working near the airport. House prices are affected making it hard to move out of the area. Noise insulation to homes does not stop the noise and pollution outside. People cannot open the windows at night when it is hot. Money cannot compensate for loss of sleep, blighted health and poor quality of life. These factors also affect family life and work life in ways it is not possible to calculate. The expansion plans assume a continuous growth in air travel demand. However, there is growing concern about the long-term sustainability of the aviation industry. Factors such as rising fuel prices, increasing awareness of climate change, and the potential for technological advancements in virtual meetings might reduce the demand for air travel. Expanding Luton Airport based on uncertain future demand could lead to underutilized infrastructure and financial losses.