Supporter Update, July 2021
A Summer of Consulting!
Read the interactive version of our Supporter Update here: https://us8.campaign-archive.com/?u=b122c7e305e20b5eedca98e1a&id=b498e03ecc
Dear Supporter,
In the past few weeks, a number of important consultations have been published. It will make our summer even drier than the beautiful weather we have been enjoying as we sift through all the detail – we will provide information on how you may respond in our next newsletter in August.
JET ZERO AVIATION CONSULTATION - deadline 8th September
The Government’s long-awaited proposals for delivering Net Zero aviation by 2050 were published last week alongside the Transport Decarbonisation Plan (see page 116 – 127 for the aviation section) and a number of other related topics. The Jet Zero consultation is open until 8th September. Unlike the Transport Decarbonisation Plan which is for all transport modes, the Jet Zero consultation is, as the title suggests, specific to aviation. Responses can be emailed to NZaviationconsultation@dft.gov.uk.
NIGHT FLIGHTS CONSULTATION - deadline 3rd September
The current consultation on long term night flights policy is still open and will close on 3rd September. Only yesterday the Civil Aviation Authority published a study into how aircraft noise disturbs people at night. We will be taking a look at the document and setting out our thoughts in due course. Please check the ‘News’ page on our website for the latest information.
This week the Government announced its decision on the first part of the night flights consultation process which closed back in March. This was on extending the existing arrangements that expire in October 2022 until 2024. However, they have decided to maintain existing arrangements until 2025. Please see this piece on our website for more information as well as our reaction.
AIRPORTS COMMISSION CHAIR: HEATHROW EXPANSION NOT NEEDED
Sir Howard Davies, previously the Chair of the Airports Commission which recommended a third runway at Heathrow in 2015, has now said that the expansion plans are not necessary. Speaking to LBC radio station last month, Davies was asked by host Nick Ferrari whether he thought a third runway was still needed, to which Davies responded “not at the moment, quite clearly. Heathrow would be delighted to fill the two runways it’s got just at the moment and its nowhere near it, so undoubtedly that’s been pushed further and further back.”
Davies also stated that if he were looking at Heathrow expansion again now, he would “have to redo the numbers to see if it made economic sense”, citing the change in business travel due to the pandemic. It is significant that the very person who recommended a third runway just six years ago and acted as the enabler of Government policy on Heathrow, now no longer holds that view.
HEATHROW OPERATIONS
Heathrow returned to two-runway operations on 5th July, alternating at 3pm when on westerly operations. The full alternation pattern can be found on their website here.
Heathrow are also carrying out “airfield infrastructure repair works”. The sites being worked on are away from residential properties, and whilst the majority of these works will be carried out during the day, some night works will be required as the project progresses. If you are disturbed as a result of these works, please email us or noise@heathrow.com.
We will be campaigning to ensure disruptions to residents are minimised at every opportunity.
LOCAL SUMMER EVENTS
This summer there are several special events in Harmondsworth, most centred on the Great Barn (UB7 0AQ).
This weekend is the start of the Colne Valley Park Festival with a display in the Barn on 25th July and on 8thAugust when there’s a tour of the Barn and village as part of a free 2-hour guided walk over Harmondsworth Moor (Booking required). 22nd August is a Community Day at the Barn, run in conjunction with Hillingdon MIND, with a tea tent, horse-drawn vehicles and other attractions – possibly a singer, magician and clown; come and see what’s happening! See our next Newsletter for more events in September and beyond.
Until next month, have a great summer.
Regards,
Stop Heathrow Expansion Committee