Peter Ainsworth, MP for East Surrey, and Crispin Blunt, MP for Reigate, have written to Redhill Aerodrome Ventures Limited, asking them to explain their planning application for an equestrian centre on the site of Redhill Aerodrome.
RAV have been briefing that they have no intention to create an equestrian centre, and that the application is simply a "technical" device to test the reaction of local planners.
Speaking about the planning application, Peter Ainsworth said:
“This appears to be yet another underhanded attempt by RAV to change the usage of Redhill Aerodrome, and once again they have managed to inflict deep concern to all those with a stake in the aerodrome.”
He went on to say,
“For over 10 years RAV have been obsessed with changing the nature of this land, thankfully without success, but it is now getting beyond a joke. I wish they would just get on with the job of running a successful aerodrome. If they are not willing, I am sure there are others out there who would be more than happy.”
ENDS
Press contact: 020 7219 5151
Notes to Editors:
1) the full text of Peter Ainsworth and Crispin Blunt’s letter is as follows:
16th January 2008
As Members of Parliament for Redhill Aerodrome, we are not surprised that you failed to inform us of your applications (to Reigate & Banstead Borough, and Tandridge District, Councils) to convert the use of the aerodrome to "equestrian centre", despite the fact that these applications would - if granted - have significant implications for residents and businesses within the communities we represent. We cannot help regretting that, as major stakeholders in those communities, and as custodians of such an important Green Belt asset, you continue pay so little regard to local opinion.
It has been reported that the applications which you have lodged with the local Councils have been described by an RAVL spokesman as "technical" and that you have no intention of establishing an equestrian centre on your land at Redhill Aerodrome. We would be grateful if you might therefore clarify your intentions as a matter of urgency. As you will appreciate, the businesses currently operating at the aerodrome have very serious concerns about your intentions, and are seeking reassurance that, if granted, the application will not automatically lead to their enforced closure and to the consequential impact of forced redundancies.
Equally, local residents are, yet again, very concerned as to your true intentions regarding the future of your Green Belt property.
The interests of local residents and of users of the aerodrome have not always coincided; but your latest proposals have had the remarkable effect of unifying them in concern over your position.
We look forward to your response.
Yours sincerely,
Peter Ainsworth MP Crispin Blunt MP
|
