CONFUSION' OVER FILTON AIRFIELD
CONSERVATIVES SLAM MINISTERS FOR 'MUDDLE AND CONFUSION' OVER FILTON AIRFIELD
Two conflicting statements from the Government are leading local residents to fear the worst
South Gloucestershire Conservative councillors have criticised the Government for its muddled and confused response to claims that Filton Airfield is to be upgraded.
In a letter to the Deputy Regional Director of the West of England at the Government Office for the South West (GOSW)., the Conservative councillors for Stoke Gifford, Filton and Frenchay & Stoke Park wards - areas which lie under the flight path of aircraft - highlight the two seemingly conflicting statements issued by the Government - one from the Department for Communities and Local Government and the other from GOSW.
The councillors have raised specific concerns with the response given by GOSW, which stated that Filton Airfield was too 'disconnected' and needed to be better 'integrated.' Many fear this is a coded warning that Filton could be upgraded to a commercial airport to help cope with the planned growth in housing in the West of England in the coming years.
The councillors are demanding reassurances that there are no plans to expand Filton Airfield.
Co-signatory of the letter, Cllr Brian Freeguard (Con, Filton) said:
"Many local residents fear an expansion of Filton Airfield and the negative impact that the increased noise and pollution would have on their quality of life - not to mention the worsening of existing traffic congestion caused by people using any new airport."
"Ongoing house-building in the area would mean that in future years even more people would be affected by any increase in the frequency of flights."
He added:
"Not only have the Government's conflicting comments caused alarm and concern amongst local residents, but they have also given the impression - rightly or wrongly - that there is muddle and confusion at the very top of Government. South Gloucestershire residents are demanding that Ministers make it clear that they have no plans to expand Filton Airfield and we want a simple yes or no."
