26 May 2011
Enstone Airfield is under threat and airfield manager Paul Fowler is asking all UK pilots to help preserve this aviation site.
In a recent statement to garner support, Paul explained, ‘You may be aware that a planning application has been submitted that would if successful permanently close the hard and grass runways that we currently use forever!!( see attached drawing of the developments location, red blocks are our suggested alternative locations).
‘We need your support to defeat this application. Here is how you can help to preserve this valuable and unique facility for generations to come. Send a letter/e-mail of objection to [email protected] by 30 May. Please put the planning reference number both in the Subject line of your e-mail and in the body text of your e-mail – 11/0607/P/OP.’
Paul went on to explain what t Lomand Holdings are putting forward as support for its application.
‘The leisure activities in the main involve recreational flying of light aircraft and microlights, which has led to the further approval of workshops and hangers on the north side of the airfield perimeter and at the eastern end of the main runway within the Great Tew Estate. Although the proposed development involves a middle section of the main runway it should not affect the flying rights of the Clubs that operate from within the Great Tew Estate or from the established grass strip north of the main runway. The other recreation activities that have been approved involve off-road motor sport activities.’
In response to this application, Paul commented, “As you will know that having any kind of obstacle on an active runway is some what dangerous, plus the wind turbulence rotor off the buildings will effect all runways users. By cutting the runway in half it would become unusable by aircraft, Lomand have done their home work and know well the consequences for YOU if they are successful.
“Lomand and its sister company Leven holdings own most of the main runway and the industrial site, there are at least three alternative locations suitable for this proposal marked as red blocks. (see attached drawing). “I believe that its aim is to make the site more desirable for development by reducing the flying. Once this is achieved they will sell the site to a developer.
“Please act NOW send an e-mail to [email protected] today if possible, use your social network to tell everyone that knows how much Enstone and flying means to you and me. Get them to e-mail too, the more e-mails that are received the more weight the objection carries.
“Remember, Enstone needs you now so please act.” <a href=”http://www.enstoneflyingclub.co.uk”>Click here for more</a>
