London City airport's expansion plans thrown out by local council
Gary NoakesLondon City airport’s bid to increase annual passengers numbers by more than a third and to do away with its part-closure at weekends has been thrown out.
The airport said it was considering its next move after Newham councillors were unanimous in voting down the airport’s request to increase annual passenger numbers from 6.5 million to nine million.
The airport also wanted to relax its long-time curfew, whereby it is required to close for 24 hours from 12.30pm on Saturdays. The Docklands airport is surrounded by a growing number of homes and the closure is designed to provide weekend respite from noise and pollution. However, the airport argued new generation aircraft are sufficiently quite to render this unnecessary.
The application will now go to the Greater London Authority but is likely to face another refusal.
A London City spokesperson said: “We are disappointed with the decision of Newham Council’s Strategic Development committee.
“Our proposals will create almost 2,200 jobs at the airport, support an additional 2,300 London jobs through tourism and increased business productivity; contribute an additional £702m in gross value added to London’s economy and improve connectivity for passengers.
“Our proposals include no more flights than are currently permitted and – a UK airport first – a commitment that only cleaner, quieter, new generation aircraft will be allowed to fly in any extended periods.
“We firmly believe in our proposals, which are carefully balanced and make best use of our infrastructure. We are actively considering next steps.”
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