CONCERNS over the proposed expansion of Stansted Airport have been repeated by Epping Forest Council's development control committee.

Members expressed anxieties directly to BAA Stansted in January, voicing disappointment that it had not addressed the issues causing concern in a recent environmental assessment.

The committee's report said there is a need for an improved public transport system within the district to cater for residents and businesses both as travellers, and prospective employees.

Better road access to the airport by creating an A414/M11 link to the north of Harlow was also emphasised.

The need to monitor noise caused by increased air traffic was identified as a problem, as the council had received complaints from residents in the Fyfield area.

The committee's report said if these issues were "adequately addressed by planning conditions, or more likely obligations, then it raises no objections to the proposed expansion".

If the council was to oppose BAA Stansted's proposal then significant council resources would have to be used to pursue its objection, possibly at a public inquiry.

Committee chairman councillor Ron Heath said: "As a district we would suffer a lot more traffic on the motorways.

"Also the airport is creating another 7,000 jobs but I'm concerned about employment opportunities within the district. "We're right on the airport's doorstep and we're not being considered for future employment. I was hoping BAA would show more interest in creating employment in the Epping Forest District."

A planning application is with Uttlesford District Council, and an environmental assessment for the expansion of Stansted Airport. Epping Forest Council is one of many organisations being given the opportunity to comment on the major planning proposal which could see passenger numbers increased to 25m a year an increase of 10m on the current figures.

November 6, 2001 18:10