§ Mr. Robin Cookasked the Secretary of State for Transport whether he will review the safety aspects of public safety zones adjacent to runways in the light of current developments in aircraft safety; and what is the restriction on employees per acre in new buildings constructed within a public safety zone.
§ Mr. Michael SpicerGovernment policy is that there should be no significant increase in the number of people living, working or congregating within public safety zones. Although the risk of aircraft crash is small, experience has shown it to be greatest in the area covered by these zones. This was confirmed by the most recent review of worldwide accident data prepared by the Civil Aviation Authority in January 1985.
In giving advice to local authorities required to determine planning applications relating to proposed developments within public safety zones, the Civil Aviation Authority (which acts on behalf of the Department in the matter) has regard to all the circumstances of the case which might affect safety, including the increase in the number of people on the ground likely to be put at risk.