Representation by David Steed
- Date submitted
- 21 September 2018
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
I have lived all my life within sight and sound of Manston Airport .I have seen and heard ever quieter Planes operating from it for 70+ years . I have also seen the ever decreasing prosperity of the area due to the death of the traditional seaside holiday trade and its effect on dependant local business and linked jobs. We find ourselves with one of the highest unemployment figures in the South East ,empty High Street shops, a Council struggling to provide services on reduced rates income and a local population without pride in where we live, and who want to work. Manston has the overwhelming support of the people of Thanet , hungry for jobs, and a Company , River Oak who have faith in the project and are already investing heavily in it , no local community could ask for more in order to " help it help itself ". The 750 acre site has enormous environmental problems for any other than the existing Airport use, I have personal knowledge of many such environmental dangers gleaned from farming nearby , parish council involvement and RAF Manston staff friendships. Brexit and the pressure on the London Airports presents a golden opportunity for Thanet, Kent , the South East and the British aviation freight industry at a time when London runway capacity is running at 99%. Most importantly for me is the local career opportunities for my Grand children and their friends. Thanet has no other career hopes on the horizon so for us the DCO application you are now reviewing is the most important for us in living memory.
Main Points :-
Local population need and acceptability.
Employment prospects.
Trust in the Applicant.
No other environmentally viable use for the site.
South East need for an Air Freight Hub with good existing transport infrastructure.
Port Ramsgate / Dover seaport link potential.
Rail link site within 1000 yards