Essex is being too gentlemanly over the threat posed by the possible expansion of Stansted Airport, the county council's cabinet member for highways, Councillor Rodney Bass, told the Mid-Essex Area Forum in Halstead on Tuesday.
The forum heard a presentation from county head of planning Geoff Gardner on the current position following the recent High Court challenge which has resulted in Gatwick being included in consideration of airport needs in the south-east.
"It does not mean we are saying Gatwick is the solution, but we are pleased that Gatwick is now part of the consultation," said Mr Gardner.
Essex County Council opposed any more runways at Stansted.
"The current capacity of airports in the south-east can accommodate demand up to 2015," he said.
"Beyond that time, there are clearly many more options.
"These could include looking at regional airports like Manchester and Birmingham, or considering a more European dimension."
Cllr Bass said: "We have been a little bit too gentlemanly about this whole thing. We should lay far greater emphasis on arrears of infrastructure in Essex, particularly in transportation, particularly in east-west links. We have dramatic arrears of infrastructure."
Chairman Cllr Joe Pike said that the forum's concerns would be passed to Essex County Council's cabinet.
Published Thursday, April 24, 2003
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article