REDBRIDGE: Legal challenge to be launched against extra flights

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"CAMPAIGNERS are to launch a legal challenge against controversial plans to increase the number of flights over east London from London City Airport.

Earlier this month some residents were outraged when Newham Council agreed to allow an extra 50,000 plane journeys from the busy airport, bringing City's annual flight total to 120,000.

Protesters argue the increase will lead to greater pollution and noise for people living in places such as Wanstead and Woodford which are under the airport's flightpaths.

[A resident] of Mansfield Road in Wanstead, said his life has been made a "living hell" since changes to the airport's flightpaths were made in May, and is concerned that house prices in the area could be affected by the excess noise.

He said: "I've lived in inner London for quite some time and I only moved to Wanstead three and a half years ago for some peace and quiet. But ever since May it's been a nightmare.

"The planes come so low the windows in my home even rattle sometimes.

"I can't even sit in my garden because the noise is just so unpleasant.

"All my neighbours are very unhappy about it too and I will certainly support the legal action."

The challenge is being launched by the Fight the Flights group.

Spokeswoman Anne-Marie Griffin said legal advice had suggested there was a "very strong case" for a judicial review of Newham Council's decision.

The group are now appealing for funds from the public before they begin legal proceedings.

Ms Griffin said: "London City Airport expansion has been the 'forgotten' expansion, despite it now being regarded as a major airport, and despite residents' best efforts.

"We want residents to have access fairness and justice and of whom many in live in the most affected areas, but whom have been denied a voice."

London City Airport have said the extra flights will be good for the economy of east London, and will also benefit local communities.

A spokeswoman for Newham Council said: “Following an extensive consultation process, which included a significant amount of input from members of the public, we are confident that this decision is in the best interest of the communities of Newham."

By Daniel Binns »