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Representation by Cherry Walker

Date submitted
24 September 2018
Submitted by
Members of the public/businesses

I support RSP's DCO Application for the re-opening of Manston Airport for cargo/freight and some passenger services.

  1. The location of Manston Airport is in a strategic position on Kent's gateway coast between England and Europe. The airport is served by good main roads A299, M2, plus Hi- speed rail Ramsgate to London in under 2 hours.
  2. The UK is entering an era of more potential Global trade after imminent Brexit.It will become more important for goods to be imported speedily to satisfy the needs of the UK's increasing population, especially food .The demand for more commercial aviation capacity in the South East is inevitable. With cargo business as a priority at Manston it means a quicker turnaround for perishables; vegetables, fruit, flowers etc to get on the road to final destinations.
  3. Just 16 miles further along this coast is the busy Port of Dover. Manston Airport could complement some sea/air journeys.
  4. RSP's plans utilising all the existing airport land for aviation purposes means the expansion of operations will bring much needed employment opportunities to the area ,ie. apprenticeships, engineering training as well as employment in subsidiary businesses.
  5. Manston Airport runway is exceptionally long, wide and very heavy duty. Can we afford to waste this national asset to housing (which is easily accommodated elsewhere) through lack of foresight of our future economic needs? The airport has an important role to play in our national and local economy.
  6. RSP is offering a very substantial investment in this airport and with Brexit not far off we need to send a message out globally that business investment is welcome. I think we should Save Manston Airport . We will need it.