CONSERVATIVE MP for Farnham and Bordon, Gregory Stafford, has submitted a formal objection to proposals currently before Rushmoor Borough Council that would significantly increase non-weekday flying at Farnborough Airport.
The application seeks to raise the number of weekend and public-holiday aircraft movements by more than 50 per cent, alongside an increase in the number of heavier aircraft permitted to operate at weekends. While the overall annual cap on movements would remain unchanged, Mr Stafford has warned that the proposals would materially alter when the airport operates and how surrounding communities experience its impact.
In his letter to the Council, the MP acknowledged the airport’s aim of supporting commercial growth but said this must be balanced against the effect on residents beneath established flight paths, particularly at weekends.
He wrote:
“Although the overall annual movements cap is retained, this clearly represents a substantial redistribution of activity into weekends and public holidays, combined with a significant intensification of the heaviest category of aircraft during those same sensitive periods.”
Gregory said he had been contacted by a large number of constituents from across the area, particularly from Farnham and nearby villages, who are concerned that the proposals would change the character of the airport’s operations away from a primarily business-focused model.
Concluding his objection, Gregory warned that the proposals go beyond a minor technical change and could have lasting consequences for weekend amenity and quality of life. He has urged Rushmoor Borough Council to refuse the application.
