Representation by Ian Douglas
- Date submitted
- 7 September 2018
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
I support the application for Manston to be used as an airport. It can be developed to provide a valuable hub for commercial and civil flights. With the prospect of increased air traffic from overseas countries in the light of Brexit, we need alternative airports to be developed away from Heathrow and Gatwick. Manston offers an opportunity for access to the South East. A successful airport will encourage growth of transport links. We have a good road system allowing easy access to London. Rail links can be developed to provide a valuable chain. A busy airport will provide local employment and introduce business into the area. Storage and onward transport opportunities will arise bringing much needed employment into a run down and depressed area. The alternative is not suitable. There are few airports left in the country. If Manston is not allowed to continue then it will become a sprawling housing estate. There will be wholly insufficient infrastructure to support a new town. The roads are not suitable for an influx of thousands of people. There are no schools or medical services. Despite promises these will be provided, that is, in my opinion, an empty promise as the introduction of thousands of new houses/ people will stretch the infrastructure to breaking point. Thanet does not offer unlimited employment and a new housing estate / town will only bring in more and more people who will not have employment. The promise of a business park is not feasible as there is already a business park nearby at Pfizer's old site and I understand that is not full and thriving. There is no attraction to attract new business into the area if the housing scheme goes ahead and it will only lead to the area becoming more depressed and dependent on low paid jobs and benefit handouts. Therefore I support the airport being re-instated.