Manston Cargo DCO Objection.pdf

Susan Kennedy, a Ramsgate resident and founding member of the No Night Flights group, is submitting her views on the Redetermination of Manston Cargo DCO. She argues that there is no need for the proposed airport, citing numerous reports from aviation experts, including Falcon Consultancy, Avia Solutions, and York Aviation, which conclude that a passenger or cargo hub operation would not be viable at the Manston site. The Examining Authority also agreed that there is no need for the airport, but the Secretary of State overturned this recommendation. Kennedy criticizes the Secretary of State for ignoring expert opinion and evidence, and argues that the existing evidence and analysis should not be ignored. She highlights that:

There is no need for the airport, as existing airports can cater to freight demands
The business case for the airport is flawed, relying on criticized reports and analysis
The designation of Freeport zones does not benefit Manston
The decline in dedicated cargo freight and increase in belly hold freight makes Manston unnecessary
* There is no compelling evidence to suggest that Brexit-related border issues or the UK's withdrawal from the EU contributes to a need for the airport.