Today, Tuesday 25 October, Kelly Tolhurst MP received confirmation following the Transport Secretary’s announcement of Heathrow’s expansion that there will be no plans to revisit the proposals for a Thames Estuary Airport in Rochester and Strood.
Speaking at the statement, Kelly said she welcomed the announcement and with it asked if this would finally bring to an end the overhanging threat and worry on so many resident’s lives that has come with the Thames Estuary Airport proposal.
The Secretary of State for Transport, Chris Grayling MP, made his announcement of the Government’s support for a third runway at Heathrow Airport during a statement in the House of Commons. This declaration effectively brings to an end the decade long threat of major destruction and disruption on the Hoo Peninsula and across North Kent.
On this hugely vital statement Kelly said,
“The delay on the airport capacity decision has been a burden on so many local resident’s lives for too long and this confirmation will finally give the community the relief we have all been waiting for.
The proposed ‘Boris Island’ airport would have devastated our North Kent region, bulldozed beloved village communities and our beautiful nature sports, as well as bringing further chaos to our local infrastructure.
The Government has made the correct decision given the infrastructure and links already in place. I am delighted that we can now all move on and instead refocus on efforts local issues that matter.”
Kelly gets Chancellor’s pledge to continue support for Thames Estuary Growth Commission
Kelly also questioned the Chancellor today during Treasury oral questions. Joining colleagues on questions around support for regional infrastructure development, kelly asked the Chancellor for assurances that the Thames Estuary 20150 Growth Commission will continue to be supported, which was duly received.
The Thames Estuary 20150 Growth Commission was set up by the previous Chancellor, George Osborne MP, to focus on delivering essential infrastructure development for the crucial North Kent and South Essex region.
Kelly said, “We are set for lots of change across North Kent in the coming years with an increase of housing and other developments, amongst other major proposed projects, so it is a priority to ensure this is sustainable while delivering economic growth. We have that opportunity through the Thames Estuary Growth Commission which is going to directly shape our area for the next 34 years.”
Kelly is looking for Lord Heseltine’s Commission to build momentum on the development of the region and is hoping positive plans are offered in the first review due to be published before next year’s Budget.