§ 14. Mr. Wellbelovedasked the Minister for Trade if his Department will study the effect on London of the development of a short take-off and landing airport or heliport on the Thames bank opposite Erith town centre development.
§ Mr. SproatStudy of the impact of such individual development proposals is for the local planning authorities in the first instance. I understand that the local planning authority, after consulting other local authorities concerned, has already granted permission for the private helicopter pad to which the hon. Gentleman refers. However, it will not offer the permanent facilities for public helicopter services that the London area needs. A separate planning application to build a STOL port in Docklands has recently been called in by my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Environment and will thus be the subject of a public inquiry.
§ Mr. WellbelovedIs the Minister aware that both these proposals threaten danger and unacceptable disturbance to the local communities, and that the heliport on the banks of the Thames has met with widespread disapproval since the local authorities granted planning permission?
§ Mr. SproatThe heliport at Rainham marshes has been granted permission for only some 30 movements a week, so will not be very disturbing. There will be a public inquiry about the STOL port, and the hon. Gentleman and his constituents, and anybody else, are free to give evidence to it.
§ Mr. HaselhurstWill my hon. Friend have particular regard to the effect that the establishment of the STOL port could have on reduing the number of movements of smaller aircraft at Heathrow?
§ Mr. SproatYes, among the many things that we have to take into consideration with regard to Heathrow and other airports, the point that, my hon. Friend has made will be borne in mind.