Kramer Backs High Court Action On Airport

6.20.00pm GMT Mon 13th Dec 2004

Two High Court actions this week have received the full backing of Susan Kramer, PPC for Richmond Park, (Lib Dems). The first, by HACAN and others including Wandsworth and Hillingdon Councils, challenges the Government's failure to consult on plans for ending runway alternation at Heathrow. Richmond Council chose not to back this action.

The second, brought by Richmond, Wandsworth and Windsor Councils, challenges Government plans to abolish limits on the number of night flights.

Susan Kramer said: "I back both Judicial Reviews all the way. Daytime noise from aircraft is already bad enough even with the respite that runway alternation gives us by reducing the aircraft overhead for part of each day. Its inconceivable that the Government plans to end this system and leave us with constant noise all day. Who could even plan an outdoor wedding or a school fete, never mind a summer afternoon in the garden.

"I support the claim in the action that there was no indication in the consultation that runway alternation was in any way an alternative to a 3rd runway. I regret that Richmond Council has chosen not to support this action.

"I am also behind the second Judicial Review, which this time is supported by Richmond Council, to fight Government plans to end limits on the number of night flights. Anyone under the flight path who has been woken in mid-sleep by aircraft overhead knows that the term "quiet" planes is a nonsense."