Blitz leafleting of rail and tube stations.
HACAN, the campaign against aircraft noise which represents residents under the Heathrow flight paths, will blitz key rail and tube stations this week with leaflets and posters to inform people about the forthcoming trials which will allow planes to use the “wrong” runway if they are 10 minutes late (1). At present aircraft landing at Heathrow switch runways at 3pm each day to give residents a half day’s break from the noise. Under a four month trial due to start at the beginning of November planes will be permitted to fly out of sequence if it appears they will be 10 minutes late (2).
John Stewart, the chair of HACAN, said, “Residents are very concerned indeed about these trials. This ‘10 minute rule’ could effectively destroy the respite period which is a life-saver for so many people.”
Stewart added: “Not since the height of the third runway campaign have so many new people been keen to join us.”
The first trial will take place from November until the end of February. There will be a further three month trial next year from July to September including the Olympic Games.
If the Government agrees to go ahead with the plans after assessing the results of the trials, there will be a period of public consultation.
ENDS
Notes for Editors:
(1). A number of stations in the boroughs of Hounslow and Richmond will be leafleted during the morning rush hour. There will be a significant presence (HACAN in conjunction with the Richmond Heathrow Campaign) at Richmond Station on Tuesday 18th October from about 7.45 to 8.45 am.
(2). For details of the trials
For further information:
John Stewart on 0207 737 6641 or 07957385650