Representation by David Frankel
- Date submitted
- 16 September 2018
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
I am very concerned about the current plans for the use of Manston Airport as a cargo hub, especially in respect of the proposed night flights. I have lived in central Ramsgate, under the airport’s flightpath for twenty years, and was originally a supporter of the airport. This changed when the owners of the airport began to erode their no-night-flights agreement. The cargo planes created noise at a level which would drown out conversation inside my house (which is double glazed and properly insulated), and if allowed at night would be very detrimental to sleep. Aside from the obvious health concerns caused by increased noise and pollution, I am also worried that the tourism and cultural industries, which have seen something of a resurgence in Ramsgate over recent years would be harmed by the return of cargo flights. I believe very strongly that the noise levels discussed in the new proposal are unrealistic, and in real life will be (as they were in the past) far more disruptive. I also believe that the economic benefits to the area, and to the country, have been exaggerated, and that far from being a benefit to the local economy, the airport will prove disruptive.