Noise caps could stop lives of residents near Heathrow becoming 'nightmare'

The Government today released its Aviation Green Paper, which sets out the UK’s aviation strategy for the next ten years, including plans to reduce noise pollution from airports around the country.

Now campaigners in east London are hoping the document, which says noise caps will be introduced and “regularly reviewed and enforced”, will help offset noise from the proposed third runway at Heathrow Airport.

In June the Government voted in favour of adding a £14 billion third runway to at the west London airport.

John Stewart, chairman of HACAN, a group campaigning against the plans to expand the airport on behalf of residents in east London, welcomed the plans.

Mr Stewart said: “The plans have the potential to improve noise pollution in Leyton, Leytonstone and Wanstead.

“The challenge for the Government and the aviation industry will be to ensure that local communities notice a real difference on the ground.”

Mr Stewart described the current noise from Heathrow flights like a “shadow people can’t escape”.

He said: “It’s always there, affecting every aspect of people’s lives.

“If we go into our own home we want to shut our door and shut out the world, but you can’t shut out the noise of the planes.”

Alongside plans to reduce airport noise the document also says it wants to focus on growth in the airline industry

But Mr Stewart is concerned this could offset the plans to reduce airport noise pollution.

Mr Stewart added: “If the noise increases it will be a potential nightmare, we want to make sure that nightmare never becomes a reality.

“The ever-present danger would be that if the Government gets more growth in the airline industry it will be tempted to prioritise growth over noise reduction.

“If the noise isn’t reduced it will affect many residents who already suffer badly from it.”

The final Green Paper is expected in the second half of next year and is currently open for a 16-week public consultation period.