23.02.10
Uttlesford MP Sir Alan Haselhurst confirmed yesterday that the Conservative party will keep its promise to block plans to build a new runway at Stansted. In a statement he said his party ‘will not approve the construction of a second runway at Stansted.’
Airport owner BAA confirmed this month that is committed to building the new runway and an extra terminal at the airport. A public inquiry into the plans had been due to start last year, but was delayed whilst ownership issues were resolved after BAA was told to sell 3 airports including Stansted. After the airports operator won an appeal against the sale in December the inquiry was delayed again, and BAA was asked to confirm that it still wants to press ahead with the scheme. The company duely confirmed this.
Sir Alan said yesterday: ‘Business at the airport remains depressed [passengers were down 11% last year] but the current owners have permission to use the existing runway to its full capacity - which could mean a doubling of passenger throughput. On the one hand this is a cross to bear by communities adjacent to flight paths. On the other, those who rely on the airport for jobs can be reassured.’
‘However, it cannot be said loudly and clearly enough that a Conservative Government will not approve the construction of a second runway at Stansted. Will David Cameron keep his promise? Yes, because his passion to protect the environment leads him to believe that the growth of aviation must be constrained.’
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