The impact of noise from over-flying aircraft on the tranquillity of the Chilterns has been growing for some time. The year-on-year growth in the number of passenger flights and the Chilterns' proximity to Heathrow and Luton airports means that this special area is particularly vulnerable to the consequences of an expanding volume of air traffic. These consequences include not only disturbance from aircraft flying overhead but increased traffic on local roads as people travel to and from airports.
The Conservation Board is very concerned about proposed developments in airport capacity and proposed changes to flight paths over south east England, both of which would greatly increase the impact of air traffic on the Chilterns. The AONB is nationally-protected in part for the tranquil green space it offers to millions of visitors every year and the Board will be objecting to any developments which seriously threaten this tranquillity.
Proposed developments of concern include a third runway at Heathrow and changes in the routes of aircraft flying in and out of Luton Airport.
changes to flight paths
The National Air Traffic Service has drawn up proposed new flight paths for aircraft arriving at and departing from several airports in the south east and east of England including Luton and Northolt. A public consultation on the proposed changes was held between 21st February and 19th June 2008. The new flight paths being suggested would result in more aircraft flying over the Chilterns AONB, at lower levels than is currently the case, which would have serious implications for the tranquillity of the area.
The Board responded to the consultation with strenuous objections to the changes in flight paths and a request for more information on many aspects of the proposals. The full response submitted by the Board can be downloaded below:
