Representation by Christa Drennan
- Date submitted
- 7 October 2018
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
I moved from London to Herne Bay seven years ago for a quieter and healthier lifestyle. The seaside towns along this coast suffered a steep decline as holiday destinations in the latter half of the last century, when cheap flights made guaranteed sunshine irresistible. They have experienced a kind of Renaissance in the first part of this century, as a more affordable and liveable option for those looking for a healthier lifestyle. I, like a number of colleagues, work locally to support health and wellbeing.
A cargo airport flight path would dramatically reduce the appeal of living here in East Kent.
I am concerned that:
a) Low flying cargo aircraft with a noise allowance greater than Heathrow planes would create noise pollution with a gravely detrimental impact on our quality of life.
b) I don't believe Riveroak are being honest about the projected amount of night flights we are likely to endure - surely cargo companies will want to utilise all hours of the day to deliver goods a quickly as possible?
c) People seem to think it is a choice between housing and an airport when these two things are not linked. The extra housing will happen whether there is an airport or not.
d) People seem to think many jobs will be created in Thanet because of this airport - I believe they are being misled here.
e) People confuse this with a passenger airport and Riveroak do not discourage this.
f) I do not think the A299 and the river crossings at Dartford and Blackwall will be able to cope with the extra commercial traffic this airport will command. The added congestion will make this are less appealing for commuters.
I cannot see how this would be a good thing for East Kent - I believe it will have a negative effect on our quality of life.