Letter to Rushmoor Borough Council on Farnborough Airport's Expansion Proposals

Residents across Surrey Heath are deeply concerned about the proposed changes to operations at Farnborough Airport, which would significantly increase weekend and public holiday flying, including a substantial rise in heavier aircraft movements. While the airport’s commercial role is recognised, these proposals risk increasing noise and emissions and extending disruption well beyond the immediate vicinity of the airfield, affecting communities beneath established flight paths.

The proposals have prompted strong opposition from constituents, driven by concerns over transparency, compatibility with Net Zero commitments, and the adequacy of the Environmental Impact Assessment, which appears to focus too narrowly on the airport itself rather than the wider area affected by overflight. Confidence in the process has been further undermined by a short consultation period over the Christmas and New Year period, limiting meaningful public engagement.

Taken together, these changes would materially alter the airport’s operational character and negatively impact residents’ quality of life. For these reasons, I am urging Rushmoor Borough Council to reject the application and ensure that any future consultation is inclusive, robust, and fully reflective of the communities affected.

Please see the letter attached below.