For Immediate Release

SAEN Ltd. is aware that an application for permission to apply for a Judicial Review is being lodged with the High Court. The claimant is a locally resident SAEN[1] member highly concerned at the decision by Southend Borough Council to grant planning permission for an extended runway and has the full support of the campaign group.

There is particular concern over the potential impact of night flights and despite assurances to the contrary, we believe that the new mitigation measures are insufficient to avoid widespread distress.

The economic argument for additional jobs has never been substantiated and is uncertain at best. What is certain, however, is that there will be extra noise and pollution for an area already one of the most congested and densely populated in the United Kingdom.

“We had no choice but to go to court,” said SAEN director, Graham Whitehead. “Both Southend and Rochford councils have shown total disregard for the interests of their residents and this should never been approved by the Development Control Committee. The Council took the decision against the will of the vast majority of the people who responded to the consultation. We believe that the planning permission process was legally flawed and we are confident that the Court will find in our favour.”

ENDS.

Notes to Editors

1. Stop Airport Extension Now Ltd. (SAEN) was formed to campaign against the runway extension at Southend Airport. The group is not opposed to the Airport itself, which has co-existed with the residents of Southend for many years. SAEN is against the runway extension, which would lead to a massive increase in flights and destroy the lives of the people living, working or going to school anywhere near the flightpath. Stop Airport Extension Now Ltd is a Member Based Company Limited by Financial Guarantee.

For further information:

• Contact Denis Walker, Press Officer for Stop Airport Extension Now
• Visit the SAEN website – http://saen.org.uk/