A proposed five-fold increase in the number of flights at Branscombe Airfield has been fiercely opposed by residents and holidaymakers – who fear the village’s peace and quiet would be destroyed.
The site is currently restricted to 500 aircraft movements a year, but the applicants say they are failing to meet demand and losing valuable income for the local economy.
But opponents to the increase to 2,400 annual take-offs and landings say the increased noise pollution would ruin ‘a peaceful gem of a village’.
The application, from Branscombe Airfield Campsite Ltd, says: “The flight numbers stated in the permission do not reasonably reflect the numbers required for reasonable airfield operation.
“As it stands, the current flight numbers allocated do not sufficiently meet the needs of incoming traffic. The result being that the site is loosing [sic] valuable income with the loss of landing fees and associated aviation related income.”
One objector to the application pleaded with the district council to reject the plans.
Laura Kerr said: “Please do not allow increased flights at Branscombe Airfield.
“This would add noise and traffic to a beautiful, peaceful gem of a village where people come to escape noise.
“The increased traffic the visitors would bring in would prove too much for Branscombe’s narrow lanes.”
David Coleman added: “If approved, the peace and quiet of this area will be destroyed forever.”
The increase in movements is also intended to support the further expansion of the aviation businesses that operate from the site, which have an £8million annual turnover.
The application adds: “The on site aviation businesses are continuing to expand, contributing to the local economy by way of employment and sub-contractor work.
“It seems reasonable to request an increase in flight activities to the site to ensure the business needs are met, thus ensuring the long-term viability of a valuable local sub-economy.”
The application also asks to amend limitations about types of aircraft, flight paths, flight times, noise restrictions and aircraft numbers at the site.
Those wishing to comment should contact East Devon District Council before Tuesday, September 29, and Branscombe Parish Council by emailing clerk@branscombe.eastdevon.gov.uk
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules here