East Surrey MP Peter Ainsworth has expressed concern about a Ministry of Defence decision to revive its plans to install a perimeter fence around Kenley Airfield. A previous scheme was dropped earlier this year following objections from Tandridge and Croydon Councils and an outcry from local residents.

Defence Minister, Kevan Jones MP, has written to Mr Ainsworth saying that, having drawn up a new design, the Government will be submitting an application to erect a fence around the airfield in the name of "health and safety".

Mr Ainsworth comments:

"For many years, local residents have happily co-existed with aviation users. We shall need to look in detail at any new design, but I am concerned that the erection of a fence around this open space will infringe Green Belt protection, look unsightly, inhibit enjoyment of the site by responsible walkers, and cost a great deal of taxpayers' money.

"Surely the MoD's priority should be to ensure that our troops in Afghanistan are properly equipped, rather than splashing out on a fence at Kenley."