§ 46. Dr. Glynasked the Secretary of State for Trade and Industry if he is aware of the concentration of aircraft over Maidenhead as a result of the operation of the new Burnham Beacon since 21st July, 1972 and the level of noise created under the new flight path; and if he will examine the possibility of reverting to the former flight paths until he has made an investigation and had consultations with the Maidenhead Borough Council.
§ Mr. OnslowThe decision to install a new VOR beacon at Burnham was taken in 1968, a site was selected the following year, and planning application was made in 1970. The purpose of this VOR, which was commissioned on 20th July, is to reduce overall noise disturbance by improving track keeping between Eton and Slough by aircraft on certain westerly departures from Heathrow. It should not, however, have resulted in an increase of aircraft noise at Maidenhead, and I am having its effect examined as a matter of urgency.