HC Deb 12 November 1968 vol 773 c198
22. Mr. Allason

asked the Minister of Housing and Local Government what restrictions he intends to introduce on development in the neighbourhood of airfields where there is nuisance from jet noise.

Mr. Skeffington

Local planning authorities were given guidance in the Ministry's Circular 22 of 1967. I am sending the hon. Member a copy.

Mr. Allason

But has not the Minister given more specific instructions in the case of Gatwick? Having given those instructions, that in the really bad area there should be no hospitals, no schools, and not even dwellinghouses, should not this be extended to other airfields such as Stansted and Luton where aircraft noise is a growing nuisance?

Mr. Skeffington

The question of planning permission in the first instance, for any of these matters, is for the local planning authority, which can impose conditions in relation to building or soundproofing, or refuse permission. In these cases there may be an appeal to the Minister, and I cannot comment at this stage.

Mr. Gwilym Roberts

Would not my hon. Friend agree that the priorities in this question seem to be wrong? Does not he believe that the need is not to restrict development in these areas, but to have further restrictions on jet noise in areas where there is existing or proposed development?

Mr. Skeffington

I think that the latter part of my hon. Friend's question is really a matter for the Board of Trade, but all these matters are considered together to try to get the right balance, allowing development, and at the same time preventing the creation of intolerable conditions for people living locally.