Public outrage at new Manston airport plans

by Micah George

Residents of Thanet, among others, have reacted in outrage at a new version of plans for the former Manston airport site to develop more houses and businesses.

The new version of the plan, currently under consultation today, detailed how 9,300 more homes will be needed to meet the estimated target for 17,140 houses in the area, 30% of which will be affordable housing.

As a result, the council is to allocate two additional areas of housing and many people are concerned about the intrusion of development.

Under the Save Manston Airport Facebook group, Lynda Currie wrote: “For the amount of houses planned, they would need at least three or more primary, junior and secondary schools; probably three or more doctors’ and dentists’, a hospital, play areas for the children. What happens in summer when the water reservoirs run down in this area? Are they going to put one in for these new houses? The children of these families are going to have children of their own. Then they will need housing and jobs. Will they keep building until there is no space left?”

Colin Fildes replied: “Lynda, I read a report recently saying that these kinds of developments only lower the standard for existing residents – more strain on existing infrastructure and as we know, the greedy developers will only do the bare minimum they have to. That’s why Manston has to become an airport again! Fast!”

Gillian Joss merely commented: “I dread to think what the future holds for Thanet!”

The new plans will be subject to a series of public meetings and residents will be able to have their say via the council’s website, consult.thanet.gov.uk, from today.

There will be a full public inquiry before being ratified by the government.