§ Mr. O'BrienTo ask the Secretary of State for the Environment (1) what advice his Department makes available to local planning authorities in respect of helicopter stations on(a) the storage of fuel, (b) the prevention of nuisance from noise and (c) general safety; and if he will make a statement;
(2) what matters are included in general planning guidance to local authorities on helicopter operation areas; and if he will make a statement.
764W(3) what representations he has received from the Civil Aviation Authority on the planning and layout of helicopter ports; and if he will make a statement.
§ Mr. MoynihanPlanning applications for development associated with helicopter operations must be determined having regard to the local development plan and to any other material considerations. My Department has issued no specific guidance to local planning authorities on such development, although DOE circular 10/73 "Planning and Noise" contains advice on the development control implications of aircraft noise.
The safety aspects of fuel storage and of helicopter operations are the responsibility of the Health and Safety Executive and the Civil Aviation Authority respectively. My right hon. Friend has received no representations from the CAA on the planning and layout of helicopter ports.