Norwich airport to hold consultation over engine testing plans

Families from villages on the outskirts of Norwich are being urged to have their say about plans to continue engine testing at Norwich International Airport.

Controversial plans to allow KLM UK Engineering to move its engine-testing facility to the former fire training site at the airport were given the go-ahead last year by Norwich City Council.

The move angered residents close to the new site who said that the testing would not only shatter their peace and tranquillity but also threaten livelihoods.

Gill Cook and her husband Peter, who own Quaker Farm in Quaker Lane, Spixworth, and the holiday cottages on the farm which is just 500 metres from the site, have won the right to a judicial review.

Andrew Bell, the airport's chief executive, said despite being granted planning permission in May last year no building work has taken place because of the 'ongoing legal challenge'.

Mr Bell said they have decided, not withstanding the existing permission, to 'start a new process' and are looking to carry out early consultation with the public over two days next week prior to submitting a new planning application. As part of the process detailed environmental impact assessment work is to be carried out. He said: 'The plan is to try and move things forward for the benefit of everyone – ourselves and the people living near the airport.'

The public consultations take place at Hellesdon Community Centre, Middletons Lane, Norwich, between 3.30pm and 8.30pm on Tuesday, July 19 and at Elm Farm Country House, Horsham St Faith, 10.30am to 6.30pm on Wednesday.

Mr Cook said: 'I will be very interested to see what they've got to show us.'

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