Shoreham Airport - expansion at the cost of the environment, say Lib Dems

4.35.59pm GMT Mon 3rd Oct 2005

Another Gatwick Airport?

Liberal Democrats have expressed concern over what some see as the 'privitisation' of Shoreham Airport. The move would lead to an expansion of the airport, causing pollution and disturbance.

The Lib Dems voted against the proposal when it came to last week's Policy & Resources Meeting of Brighton & Hove City Council.

Councillor Paul Elgood said: 'We are not sure this is the right route. Whilst we accept that aviation is basic requirement of a modern world, we don't accept that developing tiny airports such as Shoreham is the right way forward. Sussex people will continue to use Gatwick, which is Brighton and Hove's local passenger airport.

'By commercialising the airport, we will see a significant increase in usage. This will have a huge environmental cost.

"Unlike other areas Brighton & Hove can actually do something about the impact of aviation on the environment. This is why we have not back this proposal. This is about showing our commitment to the world and acting in its interests when we can.'