New South East Hub Airport increasingly more likely

The Government in its National Infrastructure Plan 2011, http://www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/national_infrastructure_plan2011.htm, published alongside the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement, has confirmed that in March 2012 it will be consulting on a long term Aviation Strategy for the UK which “.... will explore all of the options for maintaining the UK’s aviation hub status, with the exception of a third runway at Heathrow.” .

The Chancellor has also confirmed the Government’s commitment to building a Lower Thames Crossing to the east of Dartford. 3 route options are to be assessed and these proposals will be consulted upon in 2013.

It is clear that at this stage a new hub airport in the Thames Estuary has not been ruled out by the Government. The commitment to building a new Thames Crossing may suggest greater support for an airport within the Thames Estuary rather than somewhere else in the South East.

If you are concerned by any property or planning issues associated with a Thames Estuary Hub Airport and Lower Thames Crossing, then Michael Parkes Surveyors Limited may be able to assist. Please contact us on 01634 294994 or visit or website www.michaelparkes.co.uk