Representation by John Aitken
- Date submitted
- 8 October 2018
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
I object to the use of Manston as a Cargo Hub for the following reasons: -
Noise/Damage - The centre of Ramsgate is around 4km (2.5miles) from the end of the airport runway and in a direct path for take off and landing. Large freight aircraft (eg 747F and DC10) would be below 1000ft as they pass over Ramsgate and will cause high noise levels, with vibrations likely to cause damage to buildings.
Pollution - Freight aircraft are not always of the latest efficient, quiet engine type. Living so close to the airport the smell of aviation fuel will constantly hang in the air. At such a close distance you will be able to taste it in the air.
Heavy Goods Traffic Congestion - The 2 lane sections of the M2 and A299 are already busy at certain times. This will be exacerbated by an increase in heavy goods vehicles going to and from the Cargo Hub.
Questionable Job Opportunities - Whilst the airport may create some low level job opportunities, all of the technical jobs will have staff relocated from other parts of the country and will not create employment for the people of Thanet.
Freight Relocation - Many organisations currently use Heathrow and Gatwick for freight hubs and will not want to truck their goods another 100 miles to Thanet for freighter flights. Brexit may reduce the freight movements by air as more goods are produced in the UK instead.
Alternative Use - The airport site should be used for housing and light industrial opportunities for job creation.