Appendix 1
Consultation Feedback Analysis Report Rochester Airport Masterplan
June 2013 ❚❚Contents
1 Introduction and background 1
1.0 Introduction 1
1.2 Purpose of this report 1
2 Consultation Summary 2
2.1 Publicity and promotion of consultation 2
2.2 Public exhibition and consultation event 13-14 May 2013 2
2.3 Summary of feedback received 3
2.4 How the masterplan should respond 4
2.5 Next steps 7
Appendices 8
Appendix 1: Publicity material 8
Appendix 2: Public exhibition boards and feedback form 11
Appendix 3: Consultation responses - feedback forms 20
Appendix 4: Consultation responses - other submissions 32
Rochester Airport Feedback Analysis Report ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 ii ❚❚1 Introduction and background
1.1 Introduction
Rochester Airport is owned by Medway Council and is a vital part of Medway’s future economic prosperity. However, the airport’s facilities are nearing the end of their economic lives. Investment is needed to secure the airport’s medium to long- term future.
Medway has developed a strategy of making the airport ‘smaller but better’ with improved facilities for users and visitors. The main change will be removing one of the two grass runways, and replacing the remaining one with a hard surfaced runway, with a grass runway alongside.
These changes will free up land for development next to the airport. New development provides the opportunity to:
■■ meet Medway Council’s aspirations for the area by creating a hub for knowledge-based employment; and
■■ release value from council-owned land, so helping to fund improvements to the airport.
Whilst there are clear planning policies identifying the area as a hub for high quality employment, there are no specific policies that protect the airport. Medway Council has therefore commissioned Tibbalds Planning & Urban Design (supported by Campbell Reith, consulting engineers, and Aspinall Verdi, property consultants) to prepare a masterplan for the area that will provide a clear vision for the future.
1.2 Purpose of this report
Consultation with local people is important for making sure that the masterplan takes the right approach. There are two stages of consultation:
■■ an initial stage of informal consultation on the emerging masterplan before it is finalised; and
■■ a formal statutory stage that will last for a minimum period of six weeks. Photos from the initial consultation event
This is a report of the initial consultation stage, which was centred around a two-day exhibition at the Innovation Centre, Medway. The report sets out what information was shown at the exhibition, how the event was publicised, details of the responses made by local people, and how the emerging masterplan will be changed as a result of comments made.
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Feedback Analysis Report Rochester Airport 1 ❚❚2 Consultation Summary
2.1 Publicity and promotion of consultation http://www.kentnews.co.uk/news/plans_for_rochester_ airport_to_go_on_public_display_1_2186244 The consultation took the form of a two-day exhibition at the Innovation Centre, Medway, with the same material http://www.medway1.com/news/4609/Exhibition-sets-out- provided on Medway Council’s website for those unable to Rochester-Airport-vision attend. Leading up to the exhibition, Medway Council and http://www.airportwatch.org.uk/?p=921 Tonbridge & Malling Borough Council worked together to promote the consultation through a number of measures. http://article.wn.com/view/2013/05/10/Exhibition_sets_outs_ A week prior to the event Medway Council distributed 7,300 vision_for_Rochester_Airport_Medway_Cou/#/related_news flyers to homes and business around the airport (within both http://localuknews.co.uk/kent/business/localnews/public- council areas). The flyer contained information about the exhibition-setting-out-vision-for-rochester-airport-taking- exhibition and details of web based content. (see Appendix place-at-chatham-innovation-centre 1). This was accompanied by online presence on Medway Council’s websites. A press release (see Appendix 1) was sent to the following: 2.2 Public exhibition and consultation event ■■ Medway Messenger/KMFM 13-14 May 2013
■■ ITV Meridian The public exhibition and consultation was held at Medway Council’s Innovation Centre adjacent to the airport ■■ Rochester People masterplan site. Seven display boards were exhibited in ■■ BBC South East the ground floor foyer area of the Innovation Centre. These were visible from the entrance and located next to a cafe ■■ BBC Radio Kent area making the exhibition accessible and welcoming to ■■ Community Voice attendees.
■■ Machinery magazine The exhibition boards (which are set out in Appendix 2) provided information on the following issues: ■■ Federation of Small Business ■■ Background to project and proposals ■■ Kent on Sunday ■■ The opportunity ■■ Kent Business TV ■■ Key masterplanning issues (physical and design) ■■ Production Engineering Solutions ■■ Key masterplaning issues (economic and policy) ■■ Kent Institution of Directors ■■ Draft masterplan ■■ KM Business ■■ Draft masterplan details ■■ Heart ■■ Next steps ■■ Local Government Association The event ran from 10:30 am - 8:00 pm on both days. Staff The press release secured coverage in the Medway were available to discuss issues with attendees. Feedback Messenger and online presence on the following websites: forms were available for people to fill in. http://www.kentonline.co.uk/medway_messenger/news/ The main body of the feedback form posed three questions: Airports-vision-for-future-596 ■■ What three things do you like about the draft masterplan? http://www.rochesterpeople.co.uk/Exhibition-plans- Rochester-Airport-takes-place/story-18971312-detail/story. ■■ What three things could we do to improve the draft html masterplan?
Rochester Airport Feedback Analysis Report ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 2 ■■ Do you have any other comments on the proposals? Support for new employment
In addition, the forms requested some personal information The development of business spaces and creation of jobs including name, address and post code. Respondents were was largely supported by the public. asked to describe what best described their interests in the proposals: local resident, business owner or other. Road and traffic issues The staff actively encouraged the completion of the forms. Attendees were able to take a copy of the feedback form Local people queried the effect the masterplan would have home to complete and return at a later date. In addition on the existing road network and the volume of traffic the colour handouts of the exhibition boards were made development would generate. Key concerns included: available. Both days of the event received a steady flow of ■■ potential traffic increase and queuing at junctions; visitors with a number of different interests represented. ■■ concerns about the design of existing junctions; Parallel to the event an electronic version of the boards and feedback form were available on Medway Council’s we ■■ pedestrian and cycle improvements; and site: (www.medway.gov.uk/rochesterairport). This was also ■■ internal arrangement and parking. highlighted to all attendees who wished to re-examine the proposals and feed back at a later date. A link to Medway Council’s website was provided on Tonbridge & Malling Airport design issues Borough Council’s website. Many of the issues raised at the consultation event were The closing date for feedback was 24 May. related to the detail of how the airport itself will operate in the future. Rochester Airport Ltd is developing its plans for the future in parallel with the masterplan, and detailed proposals 2.3 Summary of feedback received have not yet been finalised. It was not therefore possible All of the written comments received are set out in Appendix to answer many of the detailed questions raised by local 3 and 4 of this report. This section provides a summary of people. The questions raised included: these comments. There was strong support for the retention Airport operation of the airport, and most people were positive about new employment in the area. However, a number of concerns ■■ How the airport will operate whilst paved runway is laid? were also raised, particularly about how the airport would be ■■ What times will planes fly? Can these be limited at used in the future (types of aircraft and frequency of flights) weekends and holidays? Will noise levels be limited? and traffic issues. ■■ How many planes use the airport at present and how you anticipate this changing with the development of the Support for the airport airport?
A great amount of support was received from the public at ■■ Are the majority of flights commercial or leisure? Will this the consultation event. There was a general desire to secure change over time? the future of the airport signifying its importance to local ■■ How will improvements be funded over 25 year lease people. Specifically, there were many positive references to period? the Medway Aircraft Preservation Society (MAPS) and their contribution to the area. The masterplan was seen as an ■■ Will landing fees increase and price out hobby aircraft? opportunity to enhance their activities. ■■ What aircraft use the airport at present?
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Feedback Analysis Report Rochester Airport 3 2.4 How the masterplan should respond ■■ Can MAPS/ Café /flying school /viewing areas be more accessible to public? The feedback received from the consultation was generally supportive of the masterplan. However, there was clearly ■■ Could you provide figures to demonstrate the number frustration at the lack of detailed information on the operation of planes using the airport at present and how you of the airport. There was also some confusion about the anticipate this changing with the development of the level of detail of the masterplan, but this was overcome airport? by discussions that explained its main role is to set clear ■■ Concern about helicopter noise. Is there potential to planning policies rather than decide precisely where reduce this? buildings should go and what they should look like.
Safety The main conclusion, therefore, is that the masterplan itself does not need to change but the supporting information ■■ Safety concerns due to closure of one runway. Does this needs to be much clearer in explaining the future operation make aircraft more susceptible to accidents from cross of the airport and, setting the context for issues such as winds as they will have less options for landing? traffic. ■■ If there is an increase in aircraft how will safety be maintained? Road and traffic issues Infrastructure Traffic / queuing / delays at specific road junctions Although many members of the public supported the closure of runway 16/34 and creation of a paved runway, some ■■ Any new development will require a planning application concerns were raised including: accompanied by a full Transport Assessment (TA). The TA will assess the impact of the development traffic at the ■■ How will the creation of a paved runway change number key junctions in the local area, and, if necessary, propose and types of aircraft using the airport? improvements. The extent of the junctions to be assessed ■■ Will different types of aircraft attracted by the paved will be agreed with Medway Council in a Scoping Study. runway be nosier and larger than existing? Davis Estate / Toys-R-Us junction ■■ Concern that the closure of one runway only will increase ■■ This junction currently accommodates u-turning traffic risk of accidents. for the Asda supermarket. The masterplan will identify ■■ Concern that using runway 02/20 only will result in higher opportunities to reduce the impact on this roundabout by concentration of aircraft and significant increase in noise alternative access arrangements at the airport entrance. and pollution over the properties directly beneath the Horsted Gyratory flight path of 02/20. ■■ The residential development at the Horsted Gyratory ■■ Questions over why 16/34 is to be closed rather than apparently generates less traffic at peak times than the 02/20. previous educational use and therefore no improvements to nearby junctions were proposed. However, a sum of money has been set aside for improvements at the gyratory itself which Medway Council are currently designing.
Rochester Airport Feedback Analysis Report ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 4 Pedestrian / cycle improvements leisure market is extremely price sensitive and the operators will remain competitive in this market. It is not envisaged ■■ Improvements to the existing provisions for pedestrians there will be enough commercial traffic to marginalise leisure and cyclists will be considered as part of the masterplan, aviation and in any case RAL would not allow this to happen. both on the development area and connecting to the surrounding local area. The airport is not equipped for cargo flights. There are already a few emergency movements of very light cargo Internal layout arrangements flights and this type of movement is not expected to increase ■■ The masterplan is illustrative only and does not show substantially. Typically this involves the transport of small detailed road designs. Future detailed design of the machinery parts or human transplant organs or blood. site access roads will consider the needs of all types of The airport currently handles around 35,000 aircraft vehicles requiring access. Parking will be required to be movements per year or 96 movements per day. There are provided in accordance with local standards. currently no restrictions on the number of movements. The operators have offered to cap total annual aircraft movements at 50,000 per annum or 137 per day. . A very Airport issues busy summer day is predicted to be 400 to 500 movements, Rochester Airport Limited (RAL) has been contacted compared to a peak of around 360 movements now. Careful regarding airport issues raised at consultation, and asked monitoring will be in place to check the number of flights. to provide clarification - set out below - to help answer as Licensed operating hours will be 7:30am to 7:30pm although many of the questions as possible. As set out above, RAL these hours may decrease by experience during the dark is in the process of developing its plans for the airport and winter period. The license means the airport can accept subsequently not all of the technical questions about the commercial aircraft and also offer training during those development of the airport can be answered at this time. hours. Home based aircraft will retain the right to operate up Issues such as the precise location of MAPS for example will until dusk or 9pm as now. become clearer as RAL develops its proposals. Rochester Airport is a base for the national and transport It should be noted that the detailed design of the airport itself police helicopter services and also the Kent Air Ambulance is not part of the masterplan. Any proposals made by the which is moving its life saving operations to a 24-hour airport will be part of a separate planning application. The service. Currently, these aircraft will be able to use the airport public will have opportunity to comment on this application 24 hours per day as a vital refuelling and rest stop for their as part of the normal consultation process. crews. The military also use the airport at all hours and will Operations continue to do so.
Understandably the main concern is the size and type of Helicopters by design are more flexible than fixed wing aircraft that could potentially use Rochester Airport once the aircraft. Noise mitigation is available by low level (keeping runway has been paved. Photographs and a brief description above the legal minimum) by direct departure or arrival of types of aircraft that are anticipated are attached. All of from/to the west over the railway and M2 if safe to do so. All these aircraft either use or have used the airport. night time operators are encouraged to use this route but if the runways are busy, it may be unsafe to cross them and The core business will remain the leisure flyer. The runway therefore standard departures and arrivals must be made. will not be long enough to attract larger commercial aircraft although small twin engined aircraft could land as now. Strict permission is required for anyone else to use the There is already commercial passenger traffic landing and airport outside of the licensed hours and any commercial would expect this to increase slightly. It may be possible to traffic is prohibited. As now there may be a flight outside of charge additional handling fees for commercial aircraft with these hours wishing to use a licensed airport. This may be measured increases in landing fees for leisure aircraft. The an aircraft late returning or perhaps an emergency medical
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Feedback Analysis Report Rochester Airport 5 evacuation. These flights are considered the exception and bespoke fire and rescue vehicle available to them during the operators are negotiating remission of 10 movements licensed opening hours. The crew are trained to attend any per months (a movement being a landing or a take off,) with incident within two minutes of an alarm and are qualified Medway Council officers. first aiders. There is always a duty manager on site who is ultimately responsible for day to day implementation of the Rochester Airport currently enjoys absolutely no limits to its SMS. The crew receive ongoing training and are regularly re- use and these restrictions are offered voluntarily. Movement examined by an officer of the Kent Fire & Rescue Service. logs will be available for examination by Medway Council representatives. An air traffic radio controller (FISO) is on watch during licensed opening hours. They keep constant radio contact The loss of runway 16/34 will inevitably lead to intensification with all aircraft in the local area and on the ground. They on runway 02/20. The approximate movements split is 70/30 cannot control aircraft in the air but for safety will instruct between runways (70 per cent being 02/20). Runway 16/34 those on the ground. The controller has extensive views is often used for convenience rather than necessity. Detailed over all of the operating areas and runways. They are highly figures are also available. The paved runway improves safety trained and also have to obtain a license which is renewed and lessens the noise of aircraft particularly on take off. An regularly on examination. All pilots are therefore responsible aircraft taking off on a paved runway will get off the ground for ensuring that they adhere to the rules of the air. The earlier and will therefore be higher at the boundary. Typically airport operator will always try and assist should there be on landing an aircraft is gliding on a low power setting. complaints regarding low flying. The CAA ultimately police all A grass airfield is slippery when wet and can be boggy. aircraft and pilots and take transgressions very seriously. A correctly laid paved, drained and grooved runway is All infrastructure improvements described below following neither of these. the closure of runway 16/34 mean that safety will be Safety enhanced and the airport can be more welcoming to visitors as airside and landside will be defined. An examination of the Air Accidents Investigation Bureau (AAIB) website reveals the good safety record at Rochester Infrastructure Airport. All aircraft accidents and incidents are reported to The runway will not be moving neither will it be possible to them and a Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) inspector. increase the length significantly from its current 827 metres. The reports with the AAIB have been examined and number It is envisaged the width will be reduced to 25 metres from 23 since 1988, less than one per annum, with two serious 31 metres. At either end will be hard areas for holding and six minor injuries reported. and turning. During its construction runway 02/20 will be closed for the duration. Runway 16/34 will be used when All aircraft are subject to a strict maintenance regime. They the prevailing winds allow. When the runway intersection are examined by an engineer every 50 hours with a thorough (i.e. the crossover between 16/34 & 02/20) is built then check every 100 hours. All aircraft parts are strictly licensed. the airport will be shut for a short period. Once the work is Fuel sold at Rochester is strictly controlled at source, complete, and the new paved runway has been licensed, samples are retained and checked daily for contamination runway 16/34 will be closed and the land to the north west and goes through separate filters before delivery. will be handed back to Medway Council. This area will be Pilots undergo thorough training which is ongoing and tested safeguarded to ensure that any buildings or works do not by an examiner periodically together with a strict medical interfere with airport operations and to ensure that safety is regime. not compromised.
The aerodrome licence demands a Safety Management System (SMS) which is annually audited by the CAA. Two licensed rescue and firefighting crew are on duty with a
Rochester Airport Feedback Analysis Report ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 6 The grass (relief) runway will be retained and refurbished existing operations under one roof. It is anticipated that this although it is currently in a good state. This will not move or will be located in an area where it can be expanded to enable be adjusted in size. them to fulfil their wishes.
Going from the current configuration to one runway will Both the MAPS facility and the public areas will be adjacent cause operational problems at certain times. It is anticipated to the airport entrance which will be improved both for that less than 10 per cent of the time the airport will be access and to create a welcoming environment. Signage will unusable due to high crosswinds. Each aircraft (and some be improved on the Maidstone Road. operators) have individual crosswind limits. It is down to There may be an increase in leisure road traffic at weekends the individual pilot or operator to assess wind conditions at and bank holidays but it is not envisaged that this will the time of flight. This is one of many calculations made by increase substantially during the working week from current all pilots prior to getting into their aircraft. It has also been levels. assessed that we will lose far less flights due to crosswinds than unsuitable field conditions. On many occasions the There is a great deal of outside interest at what is happening runways are usable but have been unable to get aircraft to at Rochester and the current operators have enquiries the runway due to poor conditions on the taxiways. mostly from aviation related businesses to base themselves at the airport. This is very good news in that new business The apron will be extended with all existing airport buildings, brings wealth and employment to the local economy. Other portakabins and temporary buildings being demolished. A enquiries have also been received for airside access from the short paved taxiway will be constructed from the enlarged new development on the airport. Other enquiries have also apron to the new paved runway. Existing grass taxiways will been received for airside access from the new development remain and will be used when possible. At times the taxiways on the north west area which will be given up to Medway cannot be used the new runway will be backtracked. Council. Both existing hangars will remain where they are. RAL has invited anyone with queries or concerns raised Hangar 3 will be completely reclad and reroofed with new in this section of the report to contact them directly. The doors. Consideration is currently being made as to where contact telephone number is 01634 869969. the airport operational buildings will be located. They can either be standalone buildings on the front line overlooking the airfield or consideration can be given to building offices 2.5 Next steps into hangar 3 with a control tower being constructed in the A draft masterplan document will be produced that provides roof. a clear vision for the future of the area, along with planning Hangar 4 will be refurbished although this is mainly cosmetic policies that set out what can and cannot happen in the with a renewal of guttering and new doors. area.
A new fenced viewing area will be constructed front line This masterplan will be the subject of at least six weeks’ giving extensive views over the airfield its approaches public consultation over the summer. The feedback from and the new runway. An adjacent café will be built for the consultation will be assessed and, if necessary, the refreshments and light snacks and will be open throughout masterplan will be amended. It will then be taken to council the airport operating hours. committee to be formally adopted.
MAPS will be housed in new facilities. Until they can finance the facilities they require and for expediency a new hangar will be constructed which will be able to house all of their
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Feedback Analysis Report Rochester Airport 7 ❚❚Appendix 1: Publicity material
Flyer page one
Rochester Airport Feedback Analysis Report ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 8 Flyer page two
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Feedback Analysis Report Rochester Airport 9 Press release
Press Release PR 5245
08 May 2013 Communications, Performance and Partnerships Gun Wharf Dock Road Chatham ME4 4TR e-mail: [email protected]
For Immediate Release Exhibition sets outs vision for Rochester Airport A public exhibition setting out a vision for the long-term future of Rochester Airport, including space for a new hi-tech business zone with the potential to create up to 1,000 jobs, takes place next week. The two-day event, will be held next door to the 1930s built airfield at the Innovation Centre, off Maidstone Road, Chatham, from 10.30am to 8pm on Monday, 13 and Tuesday, 14 May. Medway Council’s cabinet agreed before Christmas to begin the process of drawing up a master plan for the airport that will form the basis for any future development. The exhibition will update businesses and residents on how proposals are taking shape with staff on hand to answer questions. Cllr Alan Jarrett, Deputy Leader of Medway Council, said: “This exhibition will bring residents and businesses up to date on our proposals to secure the future of the Rochester Airport site for generations to come “It will be the first of many opportunities for comments to be made on these exciting proposals, which ultimately will form the basis for any future planning application. “I would encourage both residents and businesses, especially those living near the airport, to come along and help us to shape how best to protect the site and open it up for business, tourism and the wider community.” Anyone going to the exhibition will see a number of displays that give an initial vision for the future of the site. All comments made over two days will be fed into the process that will produce the final master plan, setting out the council’s ambitions for the site. A further public consultation event will take place later in the summer. First established in 1933, the Rochester Airport site is owned by Medway Council and has been leased since 2000 to an airport operator – Rochester Airport Limited. Proposals, revealed last autumn, involve replacing many of the existing buildings and facilities on the airport now reaching the end of their useful life and a reconfiguration of the existing runways. One of the grass runways on site will be closed and replaced with a new parallel grass and paved runway. The paved runway will allow modern small aircraft to take off and climb to a higher altitude very quickly, reducing the impact of noise on surrounding homes. The grass runway will allow the nationally recognised Medway Aircraft Preservation Society (MAPS) to continue to use the site for heritage aircraft and open days. It would not lead to the site becoming a full-scale commercial passenger carrying airport. The new runway layout could allow 29 acres near to Rochester Airport Industrial Estate – to be developed as a new hub as a new hub for science or technology related firms – with the potential to eventually create up to 1,000 new skilled jobs. The changes are also geared towards increasing visitors to the area in the long run by becoming a new aviation heritage attraction to encourage more visitors to Medway.
Rochester Airport Feedback Analysis Report ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 10 ❚❚Appendix 2: Public exhibition boards and feedback form
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Feedback Analysis Report Rochester Airport 11 Rochester Airport Feedback Analysis Report ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 12
A masterplan to secure the airport’s future, enhance heritage facilities and provide quality jobs
Masterplanning issues As well as looking at physical issues affecting the study area, the masterplanning team has investigated what sort of employment and other uses could come forward. There are two things that influence the type of development: • what planning policy says should happen in the area; • what the property market appraisal suggests is likely to be economically viable. The draft core strategy states: “BAE Systems is by some way the area’s largest private sector employer and the company is a global leader in its field. The company itself has identified opportunities for spin-off activities and land is available to Planning policy develop complementary employment facilities. This could create an economic ‘cluster’ of considerable significance.” Planning policy for Rochester Airport is mainly set by the Medway Submission Draft Core Strategy (2012).
The draft core strategy states:
“Facilities at Rochester Airport need reinvestment and upgrading and the current operator is working closely with the council to see how this might be achieved, while also ensuring that adjacent land Property market appraisal can be fully utilised for employment purposes. Investigations are ongoing and it is expected The masterplanning team has looked at what is that a masterplan covering both the airport and happening in the local property market now, and what surrounding land will be agreed in the near future.” could happen in the future. The key uses we have looked at are: This masterplanning work will fulfil the expectations set • B1 Employment: B1 is the type of employment that out in the core strategy. is appropriate in a residential area, such as offices, research and development, and light industry. The Innovation Centre is a good example of B1. • B2 Employment: B2 covers a range of industrial- related employment. B2 uses include hi-tech research and manufacturing, such as that carried out at BAE Systems. • B8 Storage or distribution: B8 is usually large warehouse ‘sheds’.
The property market appraisal shows that light industrial and industrial development are likely to be most economically viable. The demand for offices is likely to be low, as Rochester is close to better performing and more established office areas such as Maidstone. However, the Innovation Centre is doing well and there is potential to expand this. Storage or distribution use is unlikely to be acceptable in this new development. The property market appraisal therefore is in line with planning policy requirements for the area.
There is also potential demand for another hotel, as well as a gym and cafe/restaurant uses.
4 A masterplan to secure the airport’s future, enhance heritage facilities and provide quality jobs
The draft masterplan
Way
Marconi
Horsted Gyratory
BAE Systems
Potential future access from BAE Systems
Road arker P New paved runway with Lankester parallel grass runway for vintage aircraft
oad Laker
R
Toys R Us
otorway M2
m Shirley Avenue
New junction forming Homebase access to employment
Currys PC World
Raised green banking to help shield industrial area from view Holiday Inn
Potential for new uses (such as MAPS and cafe/restaurant) to N form welcoming public ‘gateway’ to the airport Innovation Centre Key Existing airport buildings improved Potential for new airport - / redeveloped by operator related or employment buildings Data centre
B2 Employment
New innovation centre
MAPS
Hotel
A3 Uses
5
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Feedback Analysis Report Rochester Airport 15 Rochester Airport Feedback Analysis Report ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 16 ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Feedback Analysis Report Rochester Airport 17 Rochester Airport Feedback Analysis Report ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 18 ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Feedback Analysis Report Rochester Airport 19 ❚❚Appendix 3: Consultation responses - feedback forms ? s l a G G s o p o r p e h t n o s t n e m m o c e r s e n h t o p o s y e n R a d e e v d a n h E u - o n e y p o on the basis of noise and personal inconvenience. That is unfortunate as I believe that this would seem probable that this will be the case given concrete runway and its increased business purposes will make airport more known and hopefully busier. no doubt be many, supported by those with ulterior political motives, who will oppose these plans taking off and landing as this will cause noise pollution to us. Winds can be very treacherous in this part of the country. Planes need to able veer off and get worse due to change in direction of runway. Traffic problems. Getting out City Way, which fatalities – airport authorities could say it is unsafe! Keep the so-called surplus land for future use. developing the Airport. How realistic are chances of this being achieved time? There will length. We seek reassurance that the numbers / types of aircraft will not be increased D O Acquiring the Woolman's site has been muted/attempted on previous occasions with a view to the number of planes Living very close to the Airport we would not want see an increase in We are not supportive of an increase aircraft numbers and types flying over our house. It Concerns about aircraft noise, type of using concrete strip. Hours flying. Type and Any improvement giving scope for more employment must be good. Extra plane traffic Concerned about the increase in noise over my property past year, which looks as if it will Serious consideration must be given to the access for new Fire Brigade services in Marconi Concerned about hiving off surplus land. Rochester airport perhaps at the moment does not obviously will get worse 40 years I support this plan 100%. I wish you well in your endeavours in bringing it all to fruition. 40 years I support this plan 100%. wish you well in your endeavours operation of landing lights and equipment. Traffic congestion. way increasing. Runways will be too close to inhabited buildings. After a few planes have led need this land, but it will probably do so in the future since leisure activities like flying are land is sold off like the school playing fields were for housing then you cannot buy them neighbourhood of the site in particular. As a local resident and neighbour Airport for nearly back. still be safe. Good to look at improving the facilities Rochester airport. About time, but once concept is long overdue and can do nothing but good for Medway as a whole and the immediate concept is long overdue and can do nothing but good for Medway as a whole the 3 F F none recorded none recorded 2 E E areas roundabout stage, which will be see planning at next access to airport and will be interested to none recorded Traffic lights on Bae plus surrounding Shirley Avenue easier to visualise 1
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? t o e D D n e h d a e l t r e p e h r v w t e t o t d r l a s p u h a o m sufficient car parking traffic and make i highway strip usage concerning W None at this time ! More concise improvement in as long there is none recorded improvement of the none recorded none recorded none recorded We would like more information i.e. paperwork development of air B20974 increased enough) infrastructure (never seems to be facility/footpath information m c pedestrian/cycle for any business 3 C C airport facilities increase in social employment hopes. Improved possibility of an none none recorded improvement of none none I.e. restaurants and bars facilities in the area 2 B B historical/leisure existing fantastic Developing the proposal bringing more jobs would be none recorded increased none the area aspects. skilled quality jobs to employment
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h u ? t o A A n e b a e l r a p h e r k t e i t t l a s u h a o the Airport. y for the area a working airport W Securing the future of Creation of jobs None retaining the area as none recorded none the whole layout as soon possible none recordedbusiness prospects none recorded Hard runway m 1 1 2 2 3 3 4 4 5 5 6 6 7 7 8 8 9 9 12 12 10 10 11 11
Rochester Airport Feedback Analysis Report ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 20 ? s l a G G s o p o r p e h t n o s t n e m m o c r e h t o y n a e v a h u o y o can take off quicker on tarmac why is a longer one needed? Will small jet aircraft be allowed to not to mention possible traffic problems These machines are easily caught by a gust of cross wind. Expect more fatal accidents if this facilities, leading to increased use. To me, this means noise, disturbance, emissions, presume, having secured a 25 year lease, but the intention is to develop and improve nuisance. D It will make landing by inexperienced and trainee pilots even more hazardous than it is already! As a local resident, I am most concerned about the frequency and size of aircraft using airport. I am concerned that the runway when paved could lead to larger planes. Indeed, if planes There needs to be a balance in the of local residents and airport management. Noise I would not like to see any increase in helicopter traffic, especially at weekends land and take off? Would the noise levels fall below Council monitoring standards? I can only pollution is an issue to local residents. The plan should include proposals lessen the noise goes ahead. Aircraft have ended up on the M2 before – this is likely to become more common goes ahead. Aircraft have ended up on the M2 before – this is likely F F storage highlight safety areas, I.e. fuel E E areas of emission contamination on takeoff none recorded none recorded shown possible
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? t o e D D n e h d a e l t r e p e h r v w t e t o t d r l a s p u h a o m improved facilities to come down. The aircraft using the makes the landing i proposed plan W if you must build on address problems Toys R Us will have window much too such as increase in the land indicated narrow. m c C C come with a 25 year access security that should improve public lease B B smarter appearance tidies the site and tired airport looking scruffy hopefully. Present
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h u ? t o A A n e b a e l r a p h e r k t e i t t l a s u h a o y W less downtime due to none recorded none recorded none recorded potentially preserves m waterlogged runways a local amenity 1 1 13 13 14 14 15 15 16 16 17 17
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Feedback Analysis Report Rochester Airport 21 ? s l a G G s o p o r p e h t n o s t n e m m o c r e h t o y n a e v a h u o y o hobby type aircraft that it caters for at the moment? already covered in your master plan. Note regarding intelligent grass cutting: at Brest airport proposal, in regard to enjoying our amenities if extra traffic is generated. made to respect our views. We are concerned about safety issues and the effects of this Homebase complex. These would provide additional business and usage of the airport to that one time and so restricted my full view understanding of the change use to airport D It is easy to underestimate the amount of business attracted by new runway. In absence The display was too small and so did not allow more than a amount of people to view at We have lived in the [area] for over 20 years. During this time we repeatedly complained to for direct owner/operator access (possibly freehold?). This would cater those airport management regarding low-flying aircraft over our property. To date no effort has been airport management regarding low-flying traffic on Rochester Maidstone Road? Will the landing fees increase and push out a small light as it is at the moment.I have no objections to the airport as it is the moment. By adding an as it is at the moment.I have no objections to airport moment. By adding land – noise and frequency. How will the proposal to develop Laker Road side impact on can/does occur to specialised performance aircraft. Given the hard taxiway access these asphalt landing strip, how will this change the use and what size of aircraft then be able to owners/operators who will not house their aircraft in the large communal hangars where damage owners/operators who will not house their aircraft in the large communal hangars where France, they leave a large section of grass uncut until after the nesting corncrake's. The result is a number of nesting pairs of this rare bird in residence during the summer (along with other is a number of nesting pairs this rare bird in residence during the summer (along any one time. Maybe best to have been on a larger flat table allow the project be viewed at of a hard taxiway around the field back to Tower etc, holding loop is vital. However, such return taxiway opens opportunity for a line, or to, of very small, individual, one two a/c hangars additional individual hangars, perhaps 10 to 20 in all, could back onto the toys R us and species) – a tourist attraction in its own right F F and solo glider flying limited training flights E E respect residents – airport management on their intent of use statement from the ensure aircraft and landings avoid low takeoffs
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? t o e D D n e h d a e l t r e p e h r v w t e t o t d r l a s p u h a o m design. In the side of the field, light aircraft. takeoff to the south I have visited, e.g. hangers or concrete/tarmac and after landing non-taxiway airfields i runway – to have Stauning in others or needing north end of the hard down the eastern flights absence of a return backtracking for W 1. There is a major is the no late, early or night there needs to be without disturbing their own aircraft works very well in be severely equivalent, for one or from the South. This others. There needs to be more hangar error in the proposed hard taxiway, say, room for at least four space including T m airstrip needed? Otherwise usage will c operators can access two aircraft so that holding loop at the hampered by aircraft Denmark, and many C C aviation related opportunities for businesses B B space plus a number specialised aircraft hangers for of individual small increased hangar
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Rochester Airport Feedback Analysis Report ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 22 ? s l a G G s o p o r p e h t n o s t n e m m o c r e h t o y n a e v a h u o y o we are". The formation of a Medway aviation and heritage centre would need to be by trust with members from the local community as Council reduced from about 6000 to 1300 approximately)? Would that have a knock-on effect stalling any caused. As a resident pilot, I am concerned about any closures to airport while concrete runway between towns – Medway to Maidstone businesses. A small commuter airline will be possible within the UK using turboprop aircraft – airports? 3. Consideration for Museum inc. brief history of airport D Good project, best of luck No doubt the tendering processes for construction and services will be conducted openly MAPSL needs to retain its present constitution and scale. We are most successful being "what really pleased the airport is retained. Conservation of area to wildlife etc. Green 1. What would happen if BAE Systems pulled out of Medway (bearing in mind the workforce has inn) is crazy many years ago it Proposal for traffic lights right turn from airport entrance (holiday A working airport, like Rochester, will add to the prosperity of area and attract more I would like to know how many planes use the airport at present? What will be increase in used for – commercial or just leisure? Query on times of flights use? How will you compensate house owners of the increase in noise? What airport be new high-tech business setting up in the location. 2. Is it possible to have more public events at they are very quiet. Let's hope this development becomes a great success was possible right turn from 82 nine into Asda and that was soon stopped due to large jams was possible right turn from 82 nine into Asda and that soon stopped due to laid. There needs to be a contingency allow airport operations while works are in progress. F F local organisations? considerations for public development. Also sufficient parking for what are the consideration to be Improved viewing facilities for the the involvement of each business. need to ensure facilities on new given to leisure/recreation E E the environmental impact would be taxiways we need Society lights and from h hard runway roundabouts at Tiger to this area can only improvement Moth junction, etc some indication of encourage retention of Medway road infrastructure – Possibly hard no overall objections. new airport Anything that is done investment in the Aircraft Preservation be seen as an helpful
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? t o e D D n e h d a e l t r e p e h r v w t e t o t d r l a s p u h a o m achieved required for aircraft full length of the to ensure that those junctions and access peak times Maidstone Road, not Medway City Estate just improvements to built would be let, as i already being business units, e.g. take account of improvements along but what are the increased usage at W general area for local it may be early days continue to make the loop on hard runway master plan needs to phased introduction Very little – I think it is More attention to Medway has a points events, exhibitions, financial implications? waiting to take off number of empty rapid progress of new business units very good m road layout. consider c etc C C airport – dependent in Medway dormant resource into a productive one visitors to the area aircraft preservation on airport owner officers ( sell off) transforming a the innovation centre it will help to sustain small area for updates to the airport redevelopment of Improved facilities for MAPS - brings for promoting the MAPS and job proposals facilities creation is the perfect venue B B our house continuation of the in airing the proposals airport as a local more activities; in the area retention potential for new open forum approach it will support the extension of 25 years possible job creation The provision of a one to Change hard runway traffic will not be over income, more jobs, amenity runway – in/outgoing business and social
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h u ? t o A A n e b a e l r a p h e r k t e i t t l a s u h a o innovative y development in the future of the airport in considering the business retain the airport W better potential for structured approach it is positive and retaining of airport the safeguarding of concrete runway potential job creation The intention to Employment the airport (though area prospects m reduced in size) 1 1 21 21 22 22 23 23 24 24 25 25 26 26 27 27 28 28 29 29 30 30
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Feedback Analysis Report Rochester Airport 23 ? s l a G G s o p o r p e h t n o s t n e m m o c r e h t o y n a e v a h u o y o planning but think also about your Davis estate residents – road! the road infrastructure (more traffic from homes built on college also) good luck to the airport good luck the road infrastructure (more traffic from homes built on college also) times. Information on pollution increase? In principle the development is a good idea but obvious for traffic lights at the toys R us roundabout have been ignored by yourselves. Now concerns are the creation of noise pollution for village suggestion that a roundabout could be installed to access the airfield. If us residents have lorries thundering down to the toys R us roundabout to turn back to Asda etc? Please consider lorries thundering down to the toys R us roundabout turn back Asda etc? Please cars are awaiting to join the A229at Shirley Avenue. Your thoughts with visiting motorists, will D I was surprised that there no information regarding the number of flights current and Would like facts and figures on types of larger planes the frequency flights start/stop create use of solar heating/treeplanting around perimeter very relieved that the airport stays - love advantage of this facility, which is a great asset to yes, we are all for the suggestionsfor airport, it is forward thinking, however previous requests Rochester return back past the innovation centre to travel Chatham/Rochester for as many 20 except Watson Avenue we to have exit left and travelled the Bridgewood roundabout proposed for the development us Davis estate ratepayers be allowed to use the suggested roundabout? Will this F F to be hardened as parallel taxi needed eastern side of drainage is poor one runway E E overlooking airport record of the airport ensure the safety café should have terrace for views is maintained
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? t o e D D n e h d a e l t r e p e h r v w t e t o t d r l a s p u h a o m the industrial estate - be incorporated into i the forum operator present at take off or land over airport from the North (Maidstone Road public Gateway - proposed new flight closeness of the Village? Stacking, paths in and out, e.g. W have the airport more information on concerned about the MAPS workshop to better access to the consider your many concreted runway to Systems. accidents structure /cafe space A229) ratepayers on the Davis estate regarding road land towards BAE centre/museum/shop over Bluebell Hill where, if they do not m could also include heritage c potential for serious C C MAPSand the airport I like the potential for improve facilities for buildings more employment B B preservation Gateway a good idea Terminal building – look at Shoreham onto the derelict part to the south of centre Mark 2 going hotel/innovation area and support for I like the idea of quality public better use of land for historical employment development and site
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h u ? t o A A n e b a e l r a p h e r k t e i t t l a s u h a o downsizing the site increased y important plans but guess it goes hard runway opportunities stays regarding airport W local development prospects of I think it is making shame about Rochester airport no problems employment better use of an development site m with a nice shiny 1 1 31 31 32 32 33 33 34 34 35 35 36 36
Rochester Airport Feedback Analysis Report ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 24 ? s l a G G s o p o r p e h t n o s t n e m m o c r e h t o y n a e v a h u o y o (See pages for full 30 and comment) 31 paved runway and several passenger aircraft now have short takeoff landing facilities it planning makes reference to faster takeoffs and reduction in noise but does not address the more noise? Make sure new development area gets enough parking fo workers / visitors traffic landing on this and as a consequence increase the noise levels over my property. The traffic lights around the area? Tarmac runway - will this lead to bigger planes and they make 50 year term a better traction to get good grade improvements airfield at Rochester airport, provided that all facilities at Rochester airport are significantly airfield at Rochester airport, provided that all facilities airport are would be good if some commercial flights were eventually available south of the public footpath (RC18). The results were amazing and I spent many enjoyable hours all the areas is to be put to the best possible use, which hopefully will eventually lead to more all the areas is to be put best possible D I'm generally in favour of the development an industrial site on north-western portion my property currently is on the flight path for aircraft landing O2/20 runway. My concern the offer of a 25 year lease term is too short in view attracting investors I would have thought as a resident I cannot see any fault with the plans for Rochester airport it seems that land in At the northern end of runway 02/20 lies an aarea green land adjacent to Marconi Way. If more traffic in the area is going to new Laker Road Development, how are roads that the closure of the 16/34 and the enhancements to the O2/20 will ultimately increase the that the closure of 16/34 and enhancements to O2/20 will improved, as follows: 1. associated noise levels from increase in landings and potential larger traffic employment. Many years ago there were flights to jersey from Rochester, so now with a new syudying the wildlife. Sadly college lost all interest in field and it became overgrown vandals. Mid Kent College employed ecologists to carry out conservation work on land the the pond dried out. It would be marvellous if a could created on airport land Could this be used for wildlife conservation? The beauty of the land is that it protected from cope? M2 roundabouts and A229 gets very congested at rush hour now. Will there be even more F F assessments for lack of funding viability of industrial development E E surrounding road adversely affected including aircraft and lack of assessment ensure that the traffic noise, road systems are not traffic congestion etc of environment
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? t o e D D n e h d a e l t r e p e h r v w t e t o t d r l a s p u h a o m their entrance the Bridgewood the traffic llights at proposals on i traffic from the north Maidstone Road to Roundabout. This roundabout replaced Laker Road on A229 to avoid community W lack of definite give greater No comment No commentAlteration of access No comment Have a cycleway and Development having to navigate potential increase in jobs ASDA if a footpath down industrial development and consideration to the would also benefit m noise to the local c C C green space HGVs Heritage at airport potential for aviation Improved public No B8 use as both Let's keep a bit of roads unsuitable for Maidstone Road area access via existing B B airport facilities (many over 70 years see on way to employment shield industrial area Chatham redevelopment of Raised green Use of development Small bit of green to area to create old) for all users from view banking to help
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h u ? t o A A n e b a e l r a p h e r k t e i t t l a s u h a o airport with paved y wildlife protection improvements which W redevelopment of nothing recorded nothing recorded nothing recorded the general Existing views and Safeguarding and Still a small airport I hope will be made the airport airport m to both access and usage runways giving rise to increased airport improvement of 1 1 37 37 38 38 39 39 40 40 41 41 42 42 43 43
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Feedback Analysis Report Rochester Airport 25 ? s l a G G s o p o r p e h t n o s t n e m m o c r e h t o y n a e v a h u o y o contend with increased flights, larger aircraft and noise levels, blighting their lives. It is authority. It is obvious that local residents most affected by the problems i.e. city and noisier spoil my hopes were peaceful tranquil retirement, in of which the property helicopter noise these days options were not put to the Medway residents was purchased in the first place define. Helicopter facilities are increasingly important feel this will inevitably mean more aircraft traffic and bigger planes which have a detrimental to crouch down see lower display boards and staff available were not able answer with any the case should flights and aircraft be limited to existing levels it would have been better if there D Furstly the exhibition was very disappointing, display badly positioned requiring people what happened to the lightning fighter that was on display? There does seem be a lot of in principle the master plan has much to commend it. The finer detail will be harder I am very concerned about the proposal to construct a hard landing strip Rochester airport as way/Wallace/Wilson/Grafton Avenue will, unless severe restrictions are imposed, have to affect on my enjoyment of home and garden. At the moment light aircraft which use increase in the amount of planes using airport and fact that these will be far bigger airport fly over my property as they descend coming to land (in fact I can very often read their registration number as a flyover!) This causes lot of noise pollution and I'm very fearful that an wrong to suggest that provision of a concrete is runway will reduce noise level would only be to know why other had been a key and meeting also of course residents would have chance F F now been now Horsted college complex, which has demolished Restrict night flying Bring your maps up- airport facilities are (emergency only) to-date - those on critical show still the E E planes information such as Restrict type of encourage MAPS flying/helicopter schools must be Short Bros and other heritage easily approachable for public use
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? t o e D D n e h d a e l t r e p e h r v w t e t o t d r l a s p u h a o m concrete, thus flights the airport will take off and land i keep 16/34 open, along with new W Close 02/20 runway, viewing facilities at provision is needed grass bank to high! extra trees over less populated importance (Short area Museum facilities to for public usage, e.g. emphasise historical m Bros) c C C has shown background for the it will create the right increased scope for safeguards the need in Medway as public usage the innovation centre high-tech jobs we airport and MAPS B B airport and we keep Medway keeps it hard runway creating a large, green, open space all year round flying
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h u ? t o A A n e b a e l r a p h e r k t e i t t l a s u h a o East/West runway y the draft master plan new build more taking off W none the master plan by closing the restoration of aged keeping the airport the open space idea, as is laid out in noise of aeroplanes appears a sound m suitable areas will be spared the airport buildings by much of Walderslade 1 1 44 44 45 45 46 46 47 47 48 48 49 49
Rochester Airport Feedback Analysis Report ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 26 ? s l a G G s o p o r p e h t n o s t n e m m o c r e h t o y n a e v a h u o y o provided so as to shield the industrial area from view. This is be applauded. However, another the west of Maidstone Road (ref. MC 2008/0968). meet and socialise. The community hall seemed limited in what it has to offer, obviously all needed at Rochester airport why cannot something be done to give the local people somewhere indoor activities. from across the western side of the Medway Valley. Although I do not think that one needs to from across the western side of Medway Valley. Although I do not think that away from the Maidstone Road, it will have a lot of concern here is the new buildings would be extra traffic volumes in the area? I feel it is congested enough and air polluted with support at plans to develop the site will, again, add to the already heavy traffic experienced in already heavy traffic support at plans to develop the site will, again, add into effect at the Horsted college site. this will also mean more traffic on roads that is already at the Tiger Moth junction. We do not need more traffic along that road. Continued in cell below... businesses within the surrounding Medway area. Its further development would provide area of the existing runway is concerned. The plans do indicate that Greenbank will be opportunities for short flight aircraft both commercial and public use providing a 'much bigger take their children, meet with friends. This seems to be nowhere around here people can go fact take this point into account back in 2008 when it refused to building development on land heavily trafficked. It is difficult enough to get out to get of the Davis estate at present, especially heavily trafficked. It is difficult enough to get out of the Davis shows little imagination! Could say " lots more" thin end of the wedge and lead to a bigger busier site. MAPS, I appreciate. It needs more D I was rather concerned to see the proposals for development of Rochester airport. The By the way, that junction could do with traffic lights instead of controlled pedestrian crossing. Rochester airport's future should become sort of the Gateway to Medway towns areas. Its I do not want any expansion of flight traffic over my property. Also would these alterations cause I wish to make one comment concerning these proposals in so far as the development of 'improvement'to the runways will mean an increase in number of flights, and use larger car and lorry fumes. Also larger planes are overhead all the time, there is never a quiet moment. be important the height of such buildings restricted to same as those existing units. this area. I recall that a few years ago the proposals to develop site included plans for houses, retail and business parks etc these plans were 'put on hold'but seem to have been put planes albeit for freight rather than passengers, which will result in more noise and pollution. The There is nothing in this area for the residents of Davis to state relax. If 'improvements'are location close to motorway, rail, and port links is vital ALL commercial recreational some 5 miles and any high buildings would have a significant visual impact. The council did in introduction of an area for 'small'businesses will mean more traffic and will, presumably, be the introduction of an area for 'small'businesses will mean more traffic picture'for growth and jobs within our area. I think the additional industrial development site proposed would create a huge burden on already busy road network. The scheme The top of the escarpment eastern side Medway Valley is visible from as far away to go a park or gardens, play area – maybe with small cafe somewhere the locals can relax, very important aspect to be considered is the impact on any new buildings distant views F F do not reduce the airport or its facilities E E 16/34 and 02/20 and 16/34 create new paved runway is to both
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? t o e D D n e h d a e l t r e p e h r v w t e t o t d r l a s p u h a o m i W do not close the old 16/34 runway m c C C B B none other none
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©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Feedback Analysis Report Rochester Airport 27 ? s l a G G s o p o r p e h t n o s t n e m m o c r e h t o y n a e v a h u o y o of Westminster leases his properties and he is one the richest men in country! up. I am not at all happy to learn of the sale of part of the airport, I would rather it was offered on up. I am not at all happy to learn of the sale part airport, would the airport, mainly siting of new runway. In past there have been several accidents roads, increasing the chances of accidents!!! the high banking, which I was supposed to believe was to protect the public fugal factory the high banking, which I was supposed to believe protect for lorries to turn in, normally resulting in vehicles having either reverse or out of these money would be better spent improving existing development! Additional traffic in the area will Walderslade)? improve this junction, or will I be force to use other ways leave the estate (through using the existing runway, but fortunately due to direction used these were over rural areas anyone thought to consult a lorry driver? Only industrial estates result in lorries making deliveries junction and at times can prove very difficult to get off Davis Estate without any of the additional junction and at times can prove very difficult to get off Davis Estate without any of the keen supporters of the airport. However, we are not happy with Council's proposals/plans for Rochester/Maidstone Road will be terrible. The paramount objective should the airport for and caused no fatalities to local residents. However, the new runway would mean that all planes make getting out of Davis Estate even more difficult than it presently is!!! Do you intend to D [We] have lived in Rochester all our lives and [the area] over 40 years. We always been two pages of comments saved as a separate PDF document on why new units when the city estate has vacant lots (last time I went). Vehicle access/exit reducing the overall site area could in future be a retrograde step. There are already empty units across Medway, why do you need to build new ones? Surely the In the proposal it appears that you looked at road junctions where access will be to new and your design shows that you are intending to have cul-de-sac's on the site which not easy a long-term lease. Although your representative stated that financially this could work, the Duke traffic this development will generate!!! Secondly, from the drawings of proposed estate, has with a 25 year lease paying £30-£40,000 per annum – quite shortfall! These figures do not add planes and helicopters buildings!! I understood that £4 million of Medway taxpayers money is being used for this project junction of Shirley Avenue, Horsted Retail Park and Maidstone Road is already a very busy would be taking off and landing, travelling over heavily built-up area; any crash therefore development, but have paid no attention to the other junctions in area, roundabout at be devastating. Your representative when asked at the meeting of size planes using airport was extremely evasive, but I've learned since the turboprops will be flying from Rochester, hence F F development all this addtional required for this lease any land not dump the hotel plan. improve the road Do we actually need Medway) development (although not in Sort out Buckmore Park facility access E E strongly against) then filter traffic from as revenue source to this development? executive jets way/Chatham airport proposed new Maidstone Road via if you need to sell keep second runway extend to attract Do we actually need Closing of one the the existing traffic jobs out onto city runways then sell off a piece any land (which I am runway near BAE Systems. This would lights at the end of the of end the at the proposed 1000
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? t o e D D n e h d a e l t r e p e h r v w t e t o t d r l a s p u h a o m A229 are good entrances on the over it development will i W keep the existing see enclosed map. attract more Addtional traffic the Additional traffic the make sure the new plan will generate half infrastructure runway but tarmac business aircraft m exists c cause C C investment Hawkins flyover could. Probably people as did the airport as you once turning right into may attract more blocked off by saying B B new school from the somewhere for when was the last possible job ceation You are making You intend to have gerater involvement by the council ground up? time Medway built a in the development MAPS provision for MAPS
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h u ? t o A A n e b a e l r a p h e r k t e i t t l a s u h a o draft master plan y airport improved and Strood W none. Even though I no houses. Improve safeguards the That you aren't You don't plan to 25 Year lease planning to close the stay, I didn't like this close the airport m airport want to see the airport 1 1 55 55 56 56 57 57 58 58 59 59 60 60 61 61
Rochester Airport Feedback Analysis Report ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 28 ? s l a G G s o p o r p e h t n o s t n e m m o c r e h t o y n a e v a h u o y o D looks a fine scheme,if the airport are happy that they can operate on new airstrip as shown. hope the airfield works are complete before any industrial allowed to take place, and signed off as finished....just to make sure that the industrial area is not created and then airport left with a half finished project.but it does look good compromise. traffic, as everyone will say is busy at peak times,and creating another 1000 jobs add load of cars vans lorries utilising the bridgewood area...... m2 jct a229, roundabout has just been relined and lights the traffic also will be far better once people use the lanes they are supposed to in, but have been rephased,this means there is so much standing traffic actually on the roundabout waiting for green lights that traffic cannot enter the roundabout due to it being all blocked up, someone needs to take the bull by horns and stop traffic only from entering roundabout, and not stopping on it, this will let all traffic going around to... continued belowget off running horse roundabout bluebell hill jct m20, needs traffic lights desperately,that work and let get on the roundabout safely from maidstone, aylesford and chatham, this must be part of scheme bluebell hill, is dangerous at the top, coming from chatham whre m2 traffic merges, the dotted white line needs to be made double solid and inner lane that stops so abruptly, must be continued over the brow of hill to do away with pinch point, where everyone up bluebell hill to the top, inside lane goes off,but wants to be in the outside lane coming lane 2 should be remarked to allow traffic filter off at the roundabout slip, this will do away with do away with the dover the huge long single queue that goes way down hill at times, and marking that is inside the walderslade one "crazy" would have thought toys r us roundabout would need improving, but having seen the plans,looks like road access will be from laker to industrial area, so our davis estate end looks to be pretty unaffected hopefully, extra housing traffic not being part of this scheme i think the plans look good,and if jobs come off,and airport is allowed to continue its purpose then this can only be a good thing. Will see further plans as they are announced F F E E
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? t o e D D n e h d a e l t r e p e h r v w t e t o t d r l a s p u h a o m i W m c C C safeguarded site as used open space B B concrete runway
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©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Feedback Analysis Report Rochester Airport 29 Full response from consultation response no 37, on page 25:
Rochester Airport Feedback Analysis Report ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 30 ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Feedback Analysis Report Rochester Airport 31 ❚❚Appendix 4: Consultation responses - other submissions Email 2 a Email 1
Rochester Airport Feedback Analysis Report ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 32 Email 3
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Feedback Analysis Report Rochester Airport 33 Email 4
Rochester Airport Feedback Analysis Report ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 34 of Park
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, limitations . Whilst I have Technology Technology he airport should he should airport with one runway one runway with t should remain a . I t should remain rushed through wi through rushed
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on the recommendations on the in equal merit to in equal
electorate/residents ). and and substance substance or facts by the by
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e turned into a commercial operations operations a commercial into e turned . runway a concrete without only ice creams at the Rochester Rochester the at in displays the 1960's air ice creams urrent 5 year airport operators 5 urrent year of Specifica at the site. at the and support and of aircraft to use the facilityof the use aircraft to conclusions and recommendations along with along and recommendations conclusionsalternative conditions
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off and landing drop zones. drop landing and off - details on safety, cost to the tax payer,of possible aircraft types cost the tax safety, on to details osal
which I have already socialised with a small number of local residents. Reaction of Reaction socialised local a number I small residents. already with have which consultation and design. This masterplan appears to be being being be to This appears masterplan design. and consultation to the east side of the airport (See attached proposals A1 proposals attached (See airport the of side east the to Weather and wind and wind Weather Safety take Safety The types and capability capability and types The I will provide I will . It is influenced by memories by is . influenced It Bill McLennan Bill 2012 Issue3 May 24th
concentrating air traffic over a densely populated residential area. area. populated a residential over concentratingdensely air traffic small provincial flying clubflying smallb provincial and not some nostalgia forairport some nostalgia the be forretained private leisure flying Consider a redesign of airportthe of andConsider redesign site a area clearProvide made be can determination moreuse that informed a so aProvide the c 2to extension year public the correct due diligence, openness and public meetings/debate. public and openness diligence, due correct the current publicity material boarders on propaganda on boarders material publicity current
1. 2. 3. current masterplan. of1. Safety residents community.the 2. to cost Financial area. local the to impact 3. Environmental paper Jan 2012.Strategy Draft 4.Core with Compliance Lastly, airport long. hot and always were summers when green iconic open memories andspaces. preserve based residentsits on theis probably for by airport andsupport any People not do change like current topology. The masterplan and literatu public impact. environmental and cost safety, on their severity the mentioning are considerations, my observationscomments Outlined below masterplan prop the masterplan the of retention the supported formerly who those even from favourable extremely been has councilthe airport. consider Ito the like would alternative proposals
dothe masterplan? improve we could to What three things make? to like would you comments other any have you Do and continuation below see Please I have. Yes m submitthat I would of residents. Safety th 1933 in opened first was airport the When
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Post Code 2SP ME1 Postal Address 262 Wilson Rochester Avenue, As owner a business .
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ss s Friday 201324 May Friday debate. and either drop it into the box at the exhibition or return it to to exhibition atit orbox drop return eitherthe it the and into
the future describes your interest in the proposals?describes in interest the your 5 5
tnedisec lacoL future, enhance heritage facilities and provide quality jobs facilities through and provide heritage quality future, enhance ' of development proposals to secure the c
enhance heritage facilities and provide quality comments by 5pm on
, r
masterplan is trying to create trying jobs. masterplan is McLennan
Bill McLennan Bill 3. 2012 Issue May 24th l
That the the That as a concept for further public foras a concept That the council has invited the public to the masterplan exhibition and soliciting and soliciting exhibition masterplan the to public the invited has council the That and be influenced can proposals draft the that so public the from comments/feedback community wider the of good the for changed should forbe the first priority as plan else the councils the master I about don’t like anything onfirstpointtoand appears fails woefully the their of It community. safety and wellbeing overAirport operator favourthe thebusinessof success strategic all else. the Notwithstanding all areas. in nearly masterplandraftdisappoints former the superficialon issue It is payer tax fundamentalto cost issues noise, the traffic, pollution like
(Please state) 1. 2. 3.
on theproposals to heartowe views want your local the airport, As or a to business resident secure the airport's the of ofsite. part development Please fill in this form feedback Wharf, Council, Dock Road Gun Development, Medway Richard Kidd, Economic ME44TR. details: your leave please feedback, your regarding contacted to be happy are you If Full Name WilliamMr Emai [email protected] masterplan?draft doabout What like the three things you
Airport Rochester Public exhibition airport's future jobs We need you Which of the following best As a resident local Other Email 5
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Feedback Analysis Report Rochester Airport 35
ground presents an presents
atement happen. A which was was which
exercise exercise to promote over densely densely over
ed zones ed zones n longer than the existing longer existing the than
se at the top of City Way of at and se City top the mechanical accidentsmechanical ay. 118 metres 118 application for the concrete runway is is runway concrete for the application Polar helicopter crash helicopterPolar crash exposes the council to speculation that it it that speculation to council the exposes
s. s. some . . It confidentiality grounds is completely groundsconfidentiality is completely
Planning Planning report safeguard the within 4 on residents. My perspective is that perspective st the residents. My ) ) the the runway runway If to
safety. safety. . that structuralthat and document the TPS 135 metres from135 hou metres a 12th January 2012 January 12th
concrete concrete . Police, Fire and Ambulance services are already stretched stretched already areandAmbulance services . Fire Police, about about airport incidents and crashes may conflictother andmay crashes with airport incidents
concerns on on concerns ing potential potential a
eater opportunity for collision demands .5 .5 for withholding for withholding the s local s runway will also permit much larger twin turbo propeller aircraft to regularly much alsolarger permit turbowill propeller regularly to twin aircraft runway shows shows
is the Manston Airport is the 945 metres in length.
of safety concern in or fallibility the safety and is human error of air traffic control . The potential mix of commercial and private/novice fliers in one airspace using ausing fliers in one airspace of mix and private/novice commercial The potential . residential properties all in nearly weather and mislead and in masterplan the exhibition material Bill McLennan Bill 2012 Issue3 May 24th masterplan states that the concrete runway will maketo aircraft help quietermasterplanthat the area concretethe will and runway states mergency services attend services mergency from AAIB incident It is clearreports the has no care for residents safety and that the invite to the exhibition was a was exhibition to the invite the and that safety for residents care no has management offers runway single gr motive the Whatever thefullfacts. without publishing airport the of and commercialisation the retention determineproposed the of maximum length the Perhaps commissioned the simply report to was W respect to City top of concretewith runway housesthe at The permit the airport it will operate increasing However, better. the runway exploit over operator to trafficair substantially. concrete new The populated area Another image safety consideration of professional be eitherflights or out direction will Dependent in wind facility. on use the distracts reportTPS safety of consultants specialist athe to the council copy The provide refusal by (which features unacceptable. unacceptable. or not Whether mentionthe of wittingly approximately approximately grass replace)02/20 (whichgrass runway it will be successful the endit of will E residential/community The masterplan example good through cutbacks. The additional liability of a commercialised and leisure airport with higher higher airportcommercialised and leisure with of additionalthrough a The liability cutbacks. services and put emergency unfairly our ofon will more demand vital accidents probability of community.the threaten the safety ,
. Is it . wind shearwind crashed into into crashed We see may given that that given
ve he Wilson avenue in futurethe sudden sudden and other documented documented other and was firstwas opened. The
on technical parameters technical on
orth/south aligned runway runway aligned orth/south he aircraft ha reported incidents/accidents at the time was sparsely time the was atsparsely based based 40 hood was cident. It does not take much much not take does It cident. ill ill prone to making mistakes which cannot to a point which may already be already may which a point to st when Rochester Airport limited was formed. Airport was limited Rochester when large social building projects sociallarge building without
3
founding principals designfounding airports the of he years due to ozone depletion ozone to due he years the the ave approved approved ave Since 1980 there have been been have there 1980 Since aircraft movements movements aircraft s the surrounding neighbour surrounding the s with multiple grass runways multiple runways grass with out ofout control. concentration of all flights onto a single n flights aof single allonto concentration pilot/crew safety.pilot/crew and much of t of estate, much Cloistrum and , Horsted Davis Park
.5 .5 and not built. Pollution was not even thought about. thought not even was Pollution built. not and
to picture what devastation to property and lives t lives should and property to devastation what picture to design of the airport airport the of design disrupt the flight path of incoming aircraft over a highly populated area. It could easily easily populated flight disruptarea. It aircraft a could pathincoming of over the highly dangerous. % are from andmechanical fatigue aircraft. metal % of of the aircraft and and aircraft ofthe 22.2% increase in Pilot Error incidents/accidents during the tenure 22.2% of Rochester increase duringPilot Errorthe inincidents/accidents The average number of accidents/incidents on an annual basis has increased. accidents/incidentsannual of basis on an The number average of the Pilot50% incidents/accidents attributed Error. are to 38 .9 11.1% are from infrastructure. A 20 Ltd the over previous Airport years. Bill McLennan Bill 2012 Issue3 May 24th original original
ise was a lesserise was a consideration umans have not evolved much since the 1930's and and 1930's the since much evolved not have umans (02/20) pointing directly to a highly populated to residential a area. highly directly (02/20) pointing of minor photograph the severity in following a The captures crash offatal toa probability happengoing and it is clearthe areFrom that the review accidents facility. using the increase areaaircraft of with into higher residential will volume populated The masterplan proposes the imagination populatedarea.a heavily residential
wind conditions are not normally bound to a single direction for take off fordirection and bound landing. take conditionsa to normally single wind are not aircraft get blow off course offand aircraft get blow course H be removed or ignored when considering safety. considering when ignored or be removed t over significantly Weatherhas changed result in a fatality.result in a ofA incidents/accidents review Branch (AAIB) Accident the Air to Investigation for reported disturbing.Rochester Airport is very factors. It is predicted that the weather will become moreand severe turbulent will factors. that It weather the is predicted where direction one therefore in/out to airportthe wise configuration restrict to could easily (some fatal) 18 of which have happened since 2000 since happened have which of 18 fatal) (some The machinestheusing facility. flying and other arehelicopters They all aircraft, to associated far is forsafety record site the from stainless. shows thatThe review since site2000: Ltd Rochester in Airport of the control took masterplan shows a single directional masterplan runway of abecause foraircraft single shows which and leisure historic many of the light aircraft are basically no that the when to basically aircraft aredifferent many light the of facility capability capability h councils theOver subsequent years drop zones for abortedpreserving take-offs.considerationof have soldon They airportoff land restricting sides both east and west considered tomasterplanofappears The lose sight The area were orchards populated. Warren populated. wood, No
Rochester Airport Feedback Analysis Report ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 36
. at council council at . Medway Medway . takeoff or landing infrastructure process may be every for every airport airport £30 a year to lease the facility fromfacility the to the lease a year completely unacceptable completely the
in . . y investment/expenditure should the the should investment/expenditure y if the the if masterplancurrent is not changed.
more attractive topound multimillionmore attractive he Planning Board Planning he
-40 thousand 6
£30 if the airport was closed then the investment would would investment the then closed was airport if the find the investment the find investment make the site based on average number of flights per day reveals th reveals day per flights of number average on based As a consequence t a consequence As
does not look a good a investment good not look does .5 .5 is a typical aircraft that could be regularly flyingforcouldbe regularly in airport andthe ofis aout aircraft typical that subsidising each aircraft by approximately approximately aircrafteach by subsidising ears. ears. ensure the success of the airport and avoid Medway Council embarrassment and avoid Medway airport the of the success ensure
ther possibilities for the land could be considered which would benefit a wider wider awhich benefit would for possibilitiesconsidered be land could the . O ther ment of £4 million of public money is made made is money public of million £4 of ment hose residents in the concentrated flight path based on the safety concerns outlined outlined concerns the safety on path based flight concentrated the in residents hose community and possibly community ball park ball calculation could be invest hown below below hown will be paying to have their lives endangered their to lives have will be paying an Bill McLennan Bill 2012 Issue3 May 24th be needed be
nce 25 year lease is signed. signed. is lease 25 year over the next 25 y next the over during expenditure a wasteful such by annoyed extremely are with spoken have I Residents freezes.pay and timesof austerity business plans theand The assistachieve on investmentairport to return to (ROI) operator money. public using as be a subsidy objectives may construed theairport is reconfigured will after orofCabinet paperssale that possibleland the lease suggest payer investment. However, return the tax NOT of base the in invest Park. to corporations looking Business/Technology the a concept expenditure money renders it public themasterplanIn summary without significant It proposal. rather a than awouldand full made before I completed recommendpublic fiscal that be due diligence council. A payers tax between pays The operator airport currently compromised to to compromised of money. through public the waste t Interestingly airport operator go bankrupt. go operator airport above monepublic on risk analysis no There be the appears to most have askedUnsurprisingly I people O become year 25 counciloperator for keepin beholden the will the business to lease. area local the to impact Environmental the of paving use runway aircraftthe permit larger the As highlighted previously will to significantly airport. S orpurposes. cargo taxi s of
s or s
after the lives lives the above property andlives?property o comment o wants to protect it. protect to wants this is often the likelihood of a serious likelihoodthe a of endangers hey can only make make can only hey
There n are community community T y.
. Sadly . towards be biased to appear structural structural and mechanical failure needlessly needlessly them
aids and abets and likely cost to the community will change will cost toand likely the community lion) towards the cost of paving the runway the runway paving of cost the towards lion) and that the the that and
prevent prevent
eeting minutes minutes eeting 5
the fact fact the that in Airportthe TenderLease document the due diligence diligence due killed and it was fortunate that the craft was over open over fortunatewas that craft the and was killed it
for Rochester Airport
. to the proposal. the to 18th December 2012 confirms the above budgetary amount to amount budgetary above the confirms 2012 December 18th
from airport is a vital asseta vital airport is helicopters, and the like aircraft are, The current masterplan proposal is completely unacceptable. The currentcompletely masterplan is proposal .5 .5
fatigue. The pilot was to a limited liability company to exploit the facilit companythe exploit toato limited liability r traffic will raise the probability of a serious accident or incident which could be ofwhich or raise accident incident theprobability a will serious r traffic
The council orto CAApowerless The are council pport the tax payers investment. payers tax the pport or the reconfiguration of the existing runways runways existing the of or reconfiguration the Bill McLennan Bill 2012 Issue3 May 24th ncrease ai in ncrease i
The masterplan that states the However, there is no tangible or demonstrable evidence to support the validity ofa validity such to the evidence support there However, or tangible is demonstrable no ofproclamation. professional Visibility peoples and tolerance perspective changed to protect the It is that the masterplansignificantly is recommended safety future of the local community. fatal not only for the pilot/passengers but also residents. butalso for pilot/passengers fatalnotonly the The sucha masterplan disaster. or mitigate can prevent Neither or Council operator Airport the proposal f takeResidents may some solace someone has been killed or seriously injured. killedsomeone or has been seriously ofconsiderationfor acceptmasterplanno safety The makesthe flying risks. enjoy the People who lookbuilding heights. aperimeter those otherat cursory below than An and fatal incident. from the arising million claims of against £10forminimum itself a Council indemnified has residents on puts Council Medway value the Is this airport. the of operation themasterplanIn summary proposal and runway traffica air of single the concentration onto local residents through its open encouragement figures su to residential areas when ample open fields are available to the south of the airport. fields available to are ampleresidential the south areas open when There is and the operators. by fordisturbance aresidents safety already disregard blatant maintained well However future or athing in reduce recommendations the similar avoid to making sure the Airport operators business plans operatorsmaking Airport the sure successful. are will happen. happen. will of document airport a Tender contribute operators A the recent is to review council the states that exceed mil £4 to(not payers money sumlarge tax of and upgrade. facility caused by metalcaused by countryside. seen arehovering needlessly often Helicopter from flightstraining pilot Rochester community the to cost Financial costs forare in mentioned No budgetary the the specific orairport the of reconfiguration masterplan exhibition material or localmailings. dated papers Cabinet Council The the airport.for improvements the to be allocated m council other of those and paper Cabinet The
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Feedback Analysis Report Rochester Airport 37
.
planning are are
that thethat likely to public waste likely Business/Technology Business/Technology Technology Park Technology
and and , while also ensuring that be created on the single lane lane single the on created be
M2 junction and City Way City and junction M2 , ould ould on basis financial a tructure and build is very expensive. is very and build tructure
similar to the Dockyard, Castle, City etc.Castle, to City the Dockyard, similar
8
driver for the master plan is the creation of formaster is the creation jobs plan driver or the gewood gyratory gewood flow to and from the B2097 is less than satisfactory than less is B2097 the from to and flow Road infras Road
corporations to invest in invest a to corporations Business/
raffic raffic a new junction c new a where see how this might be achieved be might this how see . T revision revision of masterplan the to bring the new and disturbance. and ract large large ract , dangerous and environmental unfriendly commercial alongside , dangerousunfriendly airport environmental and irport need reinvestment and upgrading and the current operator is is operator current the and upgrading and reinvestment need irport .5 .5 n urgent n issues of of the airport on days. worship is mainly set by the Medway the (2012). mainlyby set Medway submission Draftof Strategy is the Core
needed to att to needed and parking parking and he Airport does not have a heritage status a heritage have not does Airport he location of a noisy
the east side east the side -
for the airport for airport the Bill McLennan Bill 2012 Issue3 May 24th to T payer even more money through lost revenue. revenue. lost through money more even payer 1. money. properly through be thought not has masterplan The Park section of road on the A229 between the Davis Estate and Horsted development. Horsted and Estate Davis the between A229 the on road of section to the airporttrying save masterplan thein Incompromises current summary road good severely infrastructure working closely with the council towith the council working closely andongoing it areispurposes. utilisedbeInvestigations employment adjacent fully for can land the in be agreed will land surrounding and airport the both covering a masterplan that expected near future." document The Strategy draftreveals: Core states: The strategy core draft A "Facilities Rochester at Parkwithout roadwest good infrastructure The the on build side Technology of a isfeeding the mistake. onto A229 a recommend I would policy policy toin drop are asee likely airport flightof the reconfigured path Residential the direct homes in the safety given price The co the cost useand ultimately land, the of reducerestrict its will the value park a business high tech tax primary the whether determine to difficult is It council prestige?Medway a may techbusiness high park not thearea. Therevitalise reconfiguration airport However will designed roadwell infrastructure, it has aspirations providing achieve Council prominence good environment. working and enjoyable currently. templeIn the Sikh site industrial addition airportsthe side on amount west generates a significant of traffic already congested at peak times peak at congested already also the Horsted housing development. also housing Horsted the fortheB2097 new the most via access The shows plan Master Park.Business/Technology theBrid the atHowever, road infrastructure 2012. Jan paper Strategy Draft Core Medway with Compliance Futuresexhibition literature AirportThe states May Rochesterprovided 13-14th
and Both Both
the 2 hour the 2 hour gy beyond beyond gy ent a liability to the a liability ent questionable.
by commercial drivers (similar commercial drivers by to illing to accept we should try try should we to accept illing seconds and during the evening leave at the rate rate the at leave the evening during and seconds
be squeezed be squeezed
7 te runway. te runway. aircraft Rochester airport will notaircraft Rochester airport Possibly survive. will nostalgic turn affectionresidents toby distain.will every 14.4 every sound strategy for the additional traffic created by the by created traffic additional for the strategy sound they too will will too they position to theairport estuary remains ly changed and any any and changed ly .5 .5 ity material is correct in saying takeoff will be quick as the rate of ascent ascent asis of takeoffquick the rate be materialsaying in will ity is correct on the proposed concre proposed on the shows that if only 50% of the 1000 employees use cars during during cars use employees 1000 the 50% of only that if shows t instil confidence. instil w most However, are t seconds. Cars do not arrive or at leave uniform not Cars do arrive rateseconds. the road infrastructure so
m the finances that without such such without that finances m the jobs creation is commendable but the lack of tangible business strate thetangible of but lack is commendable creation jobs airport and that of its op of its that and airport
. . every 10.8 every Bill McLennan Bill 2012 Issue3 May 24th difference between councillors support for the expansion and commercialisation of of for and commercialisation expansion supportthe councillors between difference 1000+ master plan does not amaster does plan contain of one one of needs to be well planned and able to cope with the additional load. additional the with cope to able and planned well be to needs morning rush a car arrives at morning site the rush arrives a car The build jobs build business/technology park theairport. of business/technology onside the west A simple calculation schematics does no The Rochester and pressmellnoisy, arefootprint, carbonincrease pollute the atmosphere, should fail. anything community double standards conclude or councillorspersonal somethat Residentshave may agendas. The . They will be marginalised and ultimately forced Hill)the of . beTheTheyultimately move. to will marginalisedcharacteristics Biggin and be completeairport will flyers realise Whether it or not, club not as large as a Boeing 747 but in the future who knows what size of aircraft will be ofuse ableto knows futureaircraft size 747who will what the a but notas Boeing in large the airport. steep. However landing still requires a reasonably level approach which will necessitate forflying approach awill level landing which requires reasonably still steep. However residentialareas. noisy.someover be length This will very It is clearfro I recommend would quiet make them efforttomade anWhilst is operational every visit councillors airport aircraft. using such off.The full moving to thrust before having bring due to The noise is significant takeoff masterplan and public capable ofeasily are aircraft The and landing takeoff 19 short loaded fully either off lifting (with passengers or cargo) jobs the but supportnew the to neednot only significantsystem road of There a be upgrade to will
Rochester Airport Feedback Analysis Report ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 38 .
and and
area use of the
through no s. s.
.
bon Emission bon Emission ly more ly re fiscally responsiblere fiscally ocal house price other options for the
justified. justified. and undermines Medway Medway undermines and
lives a lives an open hearing. impact with commercialisation the impact of with determine the merits, benefits and published before a before published and be completed reduction in l reduction in Commitments and targets : vision. vision.
not endanger not
10 review Reduction be undertaken to to be undertaken and risk analysis and risk analysis the Medway tax payers may be substantial may payers tax Medway the Business Park and land explored which do which explored be due diligence diligence due
.5 .5 of the masterplan dditional demand on already stretched emergency services. services. emergency stretched already on demand dditional
econfiguration/expansion adversely impactseconfiguration/expansion adversely retention. retention. noise, pollution and general environmental environmental general and pollution noise,
financial cost to
current proposal endangers local residents lives. local residents endangers current proposal fullfiscal a hat support Medway Carbon support Emission Medway Reduction commitment. objectives, and targets Strategy Draft Core Carbon Commitments. Reduction the airports airport land should Park ratified. is Business/Technology r Airport The airport will changefacility thecharacterofairport the will severely. airport.the of the Park the east ofside logistics to bringing Business/Technology payer tax the to obligation fiduciary Councils the of part As
ROI, reduced value ofROI, reduced value public hearing. public at the public by built a and ratified workable solution is The endanger lives.needlessly The proposal current be cannot airport the into money public of investment The the That Bill McLennan Bill 2012 Issue3 May 24th futurefor site. solution toany the be full shouldratify convened A hearing public Car impact tomasterplan adverse Theon Medway's based is revised Medway's of conflictavoid and compromise should revised be to Masterplan The Airport compromised by targets andobjectives are Draft significantly Strategy The Medway Core foruntilfinal the a solution unwise airportthe on is 25 The lease a year offer of be a There will Additional until operator is offeredairport the current to of 2 greater Thatno years than extension an review Urgent community local the of protect changedsignificantly safety to the masterplan is That the T
Conclusions. frommasterplan is evidentfollowing The the Recommendations. d
of
health health
why and why makes the makes retention.
options for options the open in its its open in acquiesced to a acquiesced now (8.18 LTP3).
over those of the the of those over by: the airports airports the flexibility/ ) carbon emission carbon ) emission documentation on documentation radically changeradically its layout 2.55 over the years years the over CS to keep the airport airport the keep to business plans seeks to seeks transport framework
Airport operation has no tangible benefit or no or benefit tangible has operation Airport 9 underpinned with clear clear with underpinned
. . It has been systematically compromised by previousby compromised It been has systematically petition over 10 years years notaccurate 10 an indicator over old petition is that the the that . e today 25 year lease and removing future future and removing lease 25 year The originalThe petition was
. in the Medway futures the Medway in outlined in the Core Strategy overrideoutlined Strategy in the Core Airport facility which could be used more effectively onmore othereffectively facility which used be could Airport vital produce a positive outcomeclosure.for its positive a produce The Masterplan proposal
today based on a
I believe believe I quality improvements within the Medway area. improvements quality the Medway within .5 .5 a into land port does featurenot it. Will is occasionally used by the usedby element is occasionally policeor it is not a strategic helicopter vital trategy sets an ambitious target of 21,500 additional Medway jobs to be created to be created jobs Medway additional 21,500 of target an ambitious sets trategy and air and
already has an abundance of tourist and heritage attractions. heritage and tourist of an has abundance already he proposed Airport Futures masterplan has lost sight of Medway's core objectives core Futures masterplan objectives Airport proposed ofhe has Medway's lost sight Airport expansion and continuation will undermine ( undermine will and continuation expansion Airport and congestion employment opportunities need to be in close proximity of the of the proximity close in be to need opportunities employment congestion and ity for or staging paved runway. ity t draft Core Strategy it is clear Strategy draft Core he Airport Airport he nvesting up to £4M in the the in £4M up to nvesting targets. and obligations energy renewable and reduction emission carbon gnoring its needs. community. community. projects. 2014. beyond moving land reduction The Medway Medway raft raft Core S Bill McLennan Bill 2012 Issue3 May 24th
T
retention of the airport airport of the retention revitalisation of area. the of revitalisation
Airportterm Placing aon Operators the long priority I Locking the Air I solutions alternative for landan Not the the community considering better support which vision. The council in their negotiations with Rochester Airport limited have Rochester negotiations in with their The council vision.
4. 2. 3. jeopardises the MasterplanIn severely Airport the summary of Strategy the Core success solution which substantially undermines thesubstantially solution which Strategy Corethe of success what will replace will what I submit that t and current topology and character. topology current and leave residents dangerously exposed dangerously residents and leave the airports on An poll closur informed local supportfor its protection needs and aspirations of Medway Medway of aspirations and needs The movemen projects housing amountsto large workforce.ofTheof land loss Rochester Airport site a vital element in achieving predicted elementa Rochester vital employment levels. in Airport site achieving the From Medway a better building to contribution furtherTo it disposal. increasescouncils restrict land through to danger the The local residents. The d between now and 2028. and now between ofmajority Theworkforce Medway's is of To the river. alleviate futuresouth located traffic of their operation. The air ambulance is no longer stationed at the airport. Neither require a full a Neither require airport. at stationed ambulance air the The longer is no of operation. their airport facil Whilst the airport and
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Feedback Analysis Report Rochester Airport 39
). Such
After the the After
be
.
e farm would could could Th activities
electricity. electricity. farm generated and benefit bullets. benefit and continuation of the solar farm farm solarthe of continuation support MAPS support han council owned and operated. operated. and owned council han use of the the of use ouncil forouncil 2.47 Invest Invest transportin infrastructure public 2.47 parking facilitiesfor etc. Dickens parking Festival
Sheep would graze on the land to maintain grass grass maintain to land on the graze would Sheep 12 or have the operator remove it so that the Business Business the that so it remove operator the have or comprising approximately 35 comprising acres.approximately farm would be governed by Medway council procurement procurement council Medway by be governed would farm could be renovated to be renovated could es and surrounded by industrial/ business units. park by and surrounded es
could be used to supplement the new business park or or park business new the to supplement used be could additional additional Core Strategy ( Strategy Core
park
greater flexibility in theflexibility greater uld be returned to the C the to returned be uld
wo .5 .5 west section land of west by thefarmby solar ased to a Solar Farm provider ratherprovider to Solar a ased Farm t
acilities and buildings at acilities and buildings the
Bill McLennan Bill 2012 Issue3 May 24th (council would take control of the installation) installation) (council ofthe control take would 20/25 year lease the land land the lease year 20/25 expanded. be could park recreational or to enjoy significant could thefarmthemselves in invest solarthe to council elect Alternatively revenue streams FIT from and solar the operate and supply to Tenders process. For please optionssite reconfiguration attached see schematic further. be the ideas pleaseddiscuss I towill not be overlooked by residential properti residential by be overlooked not of portion west north the on built be to parking temple Sikh with combined ride and park new A frombe area to and exit parking the parking would land.alleviate Entry would This Laker road. and days provide problems worship on W.E. McLennan an investment supports infrastructure height. le were land the If Some f Some car modelcontrolled surface. for madebe remote Consideration also electric should Subjectfurther work to 5MWp a and planning application solar photovoltaic generated power The projects/buildings local the area. other to council 406561 01634 Tel 07807 210161 Mb accommodated in the the in accommodated n to the the
Biggi ng and the the
hide through through Medway Medway to provide a safe a safe to provide
subject to a subject to robust the alternative. the that experienced at at experienced that yet satisfy satisfy yet ore opportunities for cycli for opportunities ore north point which would would which point north which retains Medway Council retains Medway which
no confidence in the Planning board board Planning the in no confidence commercialisation, over use of usecommercialisation, over
ve the
ha 2.51 Provide m 2.51 Provide
. 11 the proposal out of fear of of fear of out proposal the is outrageous. Such a statement can only be be only can a statement Such outrageous. is
The park would be approximately 23 size. approximately AcresThebe in would park and other creditworthy solutions may exist. solutions may andother creditworthy old Airport road access from the A229. An additional additional the from An road A229. access Airport old exploit the airport for whatever personal reason are personal for exploit airport the reason whatever plus a plus walking lane.
for the site by Medway supportsCouncil a siteMedway speculatively by for the concerns about concerns commercial commercial influences to similar ?
misinformation ” by
into accepting into put their trust in the Planning board process when those those when process board Planning the in trust their put wanting to to wanting options options land makes it difficult to support on safety grounds. difficult safety makesland to on it support are not exhaustive exhaustive not are and considerations and themselves
be equipped with a perimeter all weather family cycling track track cycling family weather all a perimeter with equipped be masterplan is rejected solar farm installation.
negative perception on what might happen to the airport land should it it be should land airport the to happen might what on perception negative for employees. employees. for .5 .5 of people of people the
marginalisation local residentslocal misinformation to alarm residents. "concrete it over "concrete ” if
any alternative any is a solution community for benefit wider the attempts to retain the airport as a sport/leisure facility facility as aattemptsairport sport/leisure to retain the ) ) minority minority herd herd residentslocal A2 A1
should runway and safety by referring to the fact that the proposal will be will proposal that fact the to the referring by and safety runway hment on the airport airport on the hment
ouncil are combating areresidents ouncil combating Bill McLennan Bill 2012 Issue3 May 24th then then following two options two following community park at the south point of the airfield and facilities would be maintained befacilities would and airfield the point of south at the park community concreted over ( Draft the with Medway Core In Strategy sympathy Hill. Hill. Proposal ( a income by generated aspirations to create 1000+ jobs. The business/technology park similar to the proposal A1 will will parkA1 to the proposalThe similar business/technology 1000+ jobs. aspirations to create 44 inremain size. approximately acres A Proposal ( councils Business\Technology Park aspirations. However, similar to the existing plan Parkcouncils the similarexisting Business\Technology to aspirations. However, encroac A clear benefit to the private flyer is that without a concrete runway their facility useof the runway flyer is thata concrete the private A without clearto benefit is better from safeguarded protect spacesour green andfinancial significant, environmental, masterplan with plagued Itthe is clear is current that mostthe of address of which alternatives numberbuilt thereforea safety issues.I have proposal.inadequacies current the of The planning application. Why perpetuating the perpetuating notion that a that notion peddling actively The C concrete of absence The the utilise would park the community to Access lunch encourage would point southerly its at park Business/Technology the between access pedestrian and exercise time walks landof airport the A rumourone councillor,words andfor that in the be housing sold would " designed to designed solar panelsforfrom a visitors.and presentpleasant outlook view learning area for small children with parents with children small for area learning Proposals Alternative aThere be appears to operation. the to close necessary raisedthe atfrom a bund glare by protected beThe would Park walking). The park would would The park walking).
Rochester Airport Feedback Analysis Report ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 40
14 .5 .5
Bill McLennan Bill 2012 Issue3 May 24th
13
.5 .5
Bill McLennan Bill 2012 Issue3 May 24th
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Feedback Analysis Report Rochester Airport 41 Rochester Airport Feedback Analysis Report ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 42 Appendix 2
Rochester Airport Masterplan Consultation Draft
June 2013 ❚❚Contents
1 Introduction 3 The Vision 2 The future of the airport 4 Rochester Airport and adjoining land Introduction 4 will be developed as a strategic gateway
The proposals for the airport 5 and economic hub. The existing general aviation airport will be retained and Key airport questions answered 5 improved and high value economic 3 The masterplan area 8 activities provided on surplus land to Introduction 8 create skilled employment opportunities. This will capitalise on the presence of the Land Ownership 8 existing BAE facility. An opportunity to Urban design 10 enhance working aviation heritage facilities Engineering and environmental issues 14 as a public visitor attraction will also be Safeguarding 16 achieved. The open outlook provided by the airport will be retained and improved. 4 Planning policy context 18 Over the longer term reinvestment will be Introduction 18 encouraged on the Laker Road and Airport Economic development 18 industrial estates and other adjoining sites. Transport and movement 19 This will establish Rochester Airport as an
Summary 19 economic location of real significance and a model for the area. 5 Design framework and guidance 20
Introduction 20
Land use 20
Access 22
Building heights 24
Urban design 26
Design guidance 28
6 Illustrative masterplan 33
Rochester Airport Masterplan Consultation Draft ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 2 ❚❚1 Introduction
1.1 Rochester Airport is owned by Medway council and A2 is a vital part of Medway’s future economic prosperity. The To Ebbsfleet council wants the airport and adjoining land to provide a International and St Pancras strategic gateway to Medway and an economic hub. This Railway Stations River Medway hub will create skilled employment opportunities that will Rochester Chatham capitalise on the presence of the existing BAE facility, so town centre M2 town centre establishing Rochester Airport as an economic location of Route of ‘HighMotorway Speed 1’ Railway real significance and a model for the area. A2 A228 1.2 Medway council is committed to retaining and 2097 B A229 improving the airport. The airport’s facilities are nearing the end of their economic lives, and investment is needed to secure the airport’s medium to long-term future. Medway Masterplan area
has developed a strategy of making the airport ‘smaller but Railway better’ with improved facilities for users and visitors. The main change will be removing one of the two grass runways, and constructing a new hard-surfaced runway and parallel grass runway on the alignment of the existing 16/34 runway.
The proposed changes are explained in more detail in M2 Motorway chapter 2.
A229 1.3 These changes will free up land for employment-led development next to the airport. New development provides the opportunity to: River Medway ■■ M20 Motorway meet Medway council’s aspirations for the area by To Ashford, creating a hub for knowledge-based employment; and A20 Dover & Paris International Railway Stations ■■ release value from council-owned land, so helping to fund improvements to the airport.
1.4 In addition to new employment, the development of N the area will: Maidstone town centre ■■ enhance working aviation heritage facilities as a public A26 visitor attraction; Figure 1.1: Location of the masterplan area ■■ retain the open outlook westwards across the airport; and 1.6 This document provides guidance on the principles ■■ over the longer term, encourage reinvestment on the of development, including land uses, access and building Laker Road and Airport industrial estates. heights. However, as it is a masterplan for the long-term, it does not dictate the detail of exactly what buildings will look 1.5 Whilst there are planning policies identifying the like and where they will be located. This level of detail will be area as a hub for high quality employment, there are no set out in planning applications that come forward after this specific policies that protect the airport. This document is masterplan is adopted. intended to set out clear policies for both the airport and the surrounding area by providing a masterplan. It has 1.7 Planning applications that come forward in the been subject to initial public consultation and Sustainability future will be required to clearly explain the impacts of Appraisal, and so has followed appropriate planning environmental issues such as traffic generation and noise, procedures for the masterplan to be given significant and how the proposals will address any impacts. Local planning weight. people will be consulted on any planning applications.
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Consultation Draft Rochester Airport Masterplan 3 ❚❚2 The future of the airport
Rochester Airport the future www.medway.gov.uk/rochesterairport
New runways Employment land New paved runway Land available for with parallel grass development for runway for vintage more than 1,000 aircraft jobs. Improved site access via Laker Road and Maidstone Road
Protected area Existing views and wildlife protected
Safeguarded area Boundaries of safeguarded Rochester Airport site
Green bank Raised green banking to help shield industrial area from view Improved public access Improved public access via existing Maidstone Road entrance
Redevelopment of facilities Redeveloped airport facilities with improved access and public/heritage facilities for Medway Aircraft Preservation Society
Indicative layout only
Figure 2.1: Extract from Medway public information leaflet, December 2012
2.3 Working with airport specialists and neighbouring Introduction businesses including BAE Systems, the council has evaluated a number of different options for the future of 2.1 First established in 1933, the Rochester Airport site Rochester Airport. The proposals shown in Figure 2.1 above is owned by Medway council and has been leased since show Medway’s preferred approach to improving the airport. 2000 to an airport operator - Rochester Airport Limited This was set out in a leaflet that was circulated to local (RAL). Many of the buildings and facilities on the airport people in December 2012. are reaching the end of their useful life. This means that 2.4 Following on from the publication of the leaflet, Medway needs to consider how to safeguard the important Medway has worked to safeguard the future of the airport aviation activity that happens at the airport and help improve by: community access to this unique facility. ■■ completing a process of inviting tenders for an airport 2.2 Rochester Airport is important to many people operator to work in partnership with the council to carry living in Medway and is something that Medway council out improvements to the airport, and to manage it long- has committed to securing a long-term future for. The term. RAL has been selected as the preferred operator, council has been working for a number of years to identify and is working closely with Medway to develop detailed a financially viable way to protect the airport and provide plans for the airport; and greater public access for aviation and heritage/leisure use. ■■ producing this masterplan to provide a clear vision for the future of the airport area.
Rochester Airport Masterplan Consultation Draft ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 4 The proposals for the airport Key airport questions answered
2.5 This masterplan is not intended to provide a detailed 2.7 Initial consultation with local people has been an masterplan for the future development of the airport. important part of the process of producing this masterplan. Instead, it sets out broad principles for the airport and the An initial consultation report has been produced separately, areas next to it. These broad principles provide a balance and this sets out the key issues raised by local people. The between certainty as to what will happen and flexibility main concern raised during consultation was about the to allow for detailed design decisions to be made later. future operation of the airport, with people wanting to know However, improving the airport will involve: the detail of the types of aircraft, numbers of flights and as well as understanding where new facilities may go. ■■ major improvements to existing airport facilities on their current location on the airfield; 2.8 As RAL is developing its plans for the future of the airport in parallel with the process of producing this ■■ better public access to the site for heritage, leisure and masterplan, it is not possible to provide detailed information tourism; on the airport at this stage. However, improvements to the ■■ a new permanent home for the nationally recognised airport will need planning permission. Local residents and Medway Aircraft Preservation Society (MAPS); businesses will be consulted on the planning application ■■ creation of new parallel paved and grass runways to and will have the opportunity to put forward views about the replace the existing 02/20 grass runway, as well as proposals. improvements to navigation aids and outdated facilities; 2.9 However, it is possible to answer some of the and questions raised by local people at this stage:
■■ closure of the old 16/34 grass runway. What kind of aircraft will use the airport? The type of 2.6 The benefits of these improvements will include: aircraft are expected to remain similar to those that currently use the airport, with the airport’s core business remaining ■■ safeguarding Rochester Airport as a ‘smaller but better’ as leisure flyers, along with helicopter and air taxi uses. It sustainable airport with improved facilities for Medway will not become a busy passenger or cargo airport as the residents and visitors; runway is not long enough. Examples of aircraft are shown ■■ releasing new land for job creation - with the potential to overleaf. eventually create up to 1,000 new skilled jobs; Will the airport be busier? The airport currently handles ■■ providing a new aviation heritage attraction to encourage around 35,000 aircraft movements per year or 96 more visitors to Medway; movements per day. This varies from year-to-year, and the variation is due to a number of factors - fluctuating demand ■■ preserving the existing green view of the airport from for emergency services and how economic conditions Maidstone Road, as well as reducing aircraft noise affect leisure flights, for example. There are currently no around the airport through the use of a paved runway; restrictions on the number of flights. If planning permission is and granted for the improvements, it is likely that a restriction on ■■ creating opportunities to attract private sector the number of flights will be imposed. RAL have suggested investment into Rochester Airport by offering a 25 year that the total annual movements is capped at 50,000 per lease alongside a council contribution to the overall annum or 137 per day. A very busy summer day is predicted development. to be 400 to 500 movements, compared to a peak of around 360 movements now. Careful monitoring will be in place to check the number of flights. Thus, there is potential for the airport to be busier than it currently is, but this would be up to a clearly defined limit.
The paved runway will mean that - in the case of inclement weather - flights can be spread throughout the day rather than concentrated in ‘weather windows’.
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Consultation Draft Rochester Airport Masterplan 5 Will having just one runway reduce safety? The paved Examples of smaller aircraft runway will improve safety - a grass runway is slippery when wet and can be boggy. Runway 02/20 is currently used for around 70 per cent of the time, as it has a better alignment in relation to wind direction than runway 16/34. It is anticipated that less than 10 per cent of the time the airport will be unusable due to high crosswinds. Each aircraft (and some operators) has individual crosswind limits. It is down to the individual pilot or operator to assess wind conditions at the time of flight. This is one of the many calculations made by all pilots prior to getting in their aircraft. It has been assessed that the airport will lose far fewer flights to crosswinds than currently to unsuitable field conditions.
Will there be more noise? Having a paved runway means that aircraft will be able to accelerate more quickly than on grass and take off earlier. This means that they will have Figure 2.2: Cessna C172 climbed much higher before they pass over homes near the airport - which will result in less noise than at present.
What about hours of operation? There are currently no restrictions on when the airport can be used. It is likely that a restriction will be imposed if planning permission is granted. RAL have suggested maximum core operating hours of 7:30 am to 7:30 pm. Home based aircraft will retain the right to operate up until dusk or 9.00 pm as now. Emergency services and military will be able to use the airport 24 hours per day (as is the case at present).
Will there be more road traffic to/from the airport? There may be an increase in leisure road traffic at weekends and bank holidays but it is not envisaged that this will increase Figure 2.3: Spitfire substantially during the working week from current levels.
Figure 2.4: Police helicopter
Rochester Airport Masterplan Consultation Draft ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 6 Examples of larger aircraft
Figure 2.5: Cheyenne
Figure 2.6: Socata
Figure 2.7: Caravan
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Consultation Draft Rochester Airport Masterplan 7 ❚❚3 The masterplan area
A B
F
C E D
Figure 3.1 Aerial view
Land currently occupied by part of the 16/34 runway. Introduction A
3.1 This chapter provides a description of the area Land on a long lease to BAE Systems, partly used by B covered by this masterplan and the technical issues that the BAE Systems for car parking. masterplan will need to address. The chapter is organised under the following headings: The Innovation Centre - there may be opportunities to ■■ land ownership; C extend this successful business location. ■■ urban design;
■■ engineering and environmental issues; and Vacant land to the south of the Innovation Centre D ■■ safeguarding. owned by Medway council.
Woolmans Wood Caravan Park. This is in private E Land ownership ownership.
3.2 Creating one parallel runway opens up land surrounding the improved airport for development. The Potential for some new development within the F masterplan area encompasses several areas of land around airport area. the airport, and these are shown in Figs 3.1 and 3.2.
Rochester Airport Masterplan Consultation Draft ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 8 BAE Systems
B Runway 16/34 Runway (to be closed) 02/20 A
Surplus land within BAE site with potential to be included in the masterplan
B2097
M2 motorway A229
Railway
Key
Potential development land owned by Medway council Potential development F land let to BAE Systems C Green buffer within airport
Area to remain as airport D Potential development land within airport E
Woolmans Wood Caravan Park
Medway Innovation Centre
Vacant land owned by Medway council N Land within Tonbridge Malling Borough council
Figure 3.2: Plan showing the masterplan area
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Consultation Draft Rochester Airport Masterplan 9 Urban design 1 2
3.3 It is important to understand the character of the masterplan area and its immediate context. This helps to guide the masterplan - are there areas where character is special and needs to be preserved? Is there an opportunity to improve the character of the area through new high quality development? Are there opportunities to improve the quality 1: BAE Systems 2: Horsted Retail Park of the existing employment areas over time, so that the area -- Mixture of industrial -- Double height retail units as a whole is improved? sheds and office with parking - set back accommodation. from Maidstone Road, 3.4 How the masterplan area connects with the local -- Between one and five Chatham. area is also important - where can vehicular access be storeys. -- Holiday Inn Hotel - low rise provided? Where do pedestrians need to get to? -- Surrounded by perimeter between one and three 3.5 This urban design section addresses these two fence. No public access storeys- separate access issues: character and access. in to or through this area. from retail units. -- No uniformity between -- Frontages vary - central building styles and ages, part fronts on to A229 varying heights , between and forms relatively strong one and five storeys. relationship with road.
3 4
3: Airport 4: Laker Road Industrial -- Varied accommodation Estate including: 2 Hangars, -- Variety of varying Flight School, Aircraft office and industrial/ Preservation Society, gun manufacturing uses. No club, cafe, control tower, frontage to B2097. museum, function room. -- Accessed along Laker -- Some accommodation Road. in poor condition and in -- No uniformity in building need of replacement. types, materials, heights -- Two grass runways. or forms. -- Frontages along Laker Road are not uniform a - variety of fronts and backs overlook the airfield. This gives a somewhat untidy appearance.
Rochester Airport Masterplan Consultation Draft ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 10 5 5
Frontages to B2097 1
5: Rochester Airport Industrial Estate 4 -- Variety of building types including offices and industrial. Some leisure Laker Road A 229 Toys R Us and retail uses along B2097 (above). More formal frontage makes B2097 this part of the site seem more organised. -- No uniformity in building types, materials, heights 2 or forms - results in a somewhat untidy appearance.
6
Holiday Inn
Airport M2 motorway buildings
3
6
6: Southern area -- Heavily treed Woolmans Wood has ‘private’ Railway character with limited views from outside the site. -- Vacant land presents unattractive frontage to Figure 3.3: Plan showing character areas the A229.
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Consultation Draft Rochester Airport Masterplan 11 Access and circulation: urban design issues 1 3.6 In its wider context, the site is well-connected to the road network. However, access onto the airport is limited. The main access is from the Maidstone Road, Chatham, which is poorly signed and is shared with a hotel at the southern end of the airport’s eastern boundary and Medway’s Innovation Centre, the latter of which hosts in excess of 200 jobs. The main access becomes busy at rush hour times and can cause delays to vehicles leaving the site. 1: Entrance to Rochester 3.7 As the main airport accommodation is located on the southwestern side of the field, Airport Industrial Estate access to this area is taken close to the southern end of runway 16/34. As this is crossed -- No access to by aircraft, the road is controlled by a traffic light system operated from the control tower. development land and Queues can build up here when there is a high level of runway usage. Emergency access no visual connection with points are located at the southwestern, eastern and western boundaries. airfield.
3.8 The aim of the masterplan is to deliver new employment-led development that can meet Medway’s aspirations for high quality jobs, along with improved access to the airport 2 facilities, particularly those to which the public wish to gain access (such as MAPS). An essential part of the masterplanning process is therefore to create high quality, legible access points (or ‘gateways’) to the new development. The site is challenging in this regard. Figure 3.4 opposite highlights the key opportunities, and these are:
■■ 8: the existing primary access to the airport from the A229; 2: Entrance to Rochester ■■ 4: from the southern corner of Laker Road, which has the advantage of taking drivers Airport Industrial Estate straight into the development area; and -- No access to ■■ 3: direct access via Lankester Parker Road. development land - potential to connect to Laker Road?
3 4 5 6
3: Entrance to Laker Road 4: Entrance to Laker Road 5: Airport (back door) 6: Entrance to caravan Industrial Estate Industrial Estate -- Not currently legible as a park -- Public access to -- Visual connection point of entry. -- Secluded entry point industrial and business to airfield, although amongst heavy planting. space along Laker Road. obstructed by trees. -- Visual connection to -- Potential to develop airfield. buildings as gateway.
7 8 9
7: Entrance to freehold 8: Primary access 9: Marconi Way Horsted Retail Park development land (not -- Innovation Centre -- Public access to existing -- Serves retail units. used) naturally marks entry. park and ride. -- Visual connections with -- Access from A229 Road -- Access to BAE Site airfield. is difficult. (private /secure only). -- No potential for vehicular -- Visual connection to the -- No access to airfield access to airport land. airport is weak. currently.
Rochester Airport Masterplan Consultation Draft ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 12 Circulation within BAE Systems site is private 1 - no public access 9
BAE Systems 2 G2
3 A 229
B2097 M2 motorway
Access to Horsted Railway Retail Park RUNWAY AREA
4
Existing primary 8 access to a irport
5 6 7
Key
Existing access point
Potential gateways to development land N Potential access to masterplan area
Figure 3.4: Access and circulation plan
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Consultation Draft Rochester Airport Masterplan 13 no footways on a section of the B2097 to the south of Laker Engineering and environmental Road. Existing pedestrian facilities include a signalised issues crossing on the A229 providing access to the Davis Estate area and southbound bus stops on Maidstone Road. There 3.9 The key engineering and environmental issues is a cycle route along the A229 consisting of both on-street considered at this high-level masterplanning stage are: and off-street paths. This route connects the Walderslade area with Rochester town centre. ■■ access and circulation: technical issues; 3.15 Public transport: The area is served by a number of ■■ site history, and in particular the potential for ground contamination, unexploded ordnance and underground bus routes, primarily service 101 which runs via the A229 to features from the Second World War; and Maidstone in one direction and Chatham and Gillingham in the other direction. In addition to this route there is service ■■ ecology, trees and landscape. 185 which runs between Chatham and Lordswood and 3.10 Noise has been considered in relation ot the Walderslade. On the western side of the site, service 142 proposed uses - that is, checking that employment, hotel operates via Warren Wood between Blue Bell Hill village and and cafe/restaurant uses and the airport are compatible. Rochester and Chatham. Detailed tecnical issues, including noise, will be considered at planning application stage. Peak Daytime Evening 101 4 per hour 4 per hour 1/2 hourly / Access and circulation: technical iessues hourly 185 hourly hourly - 3.11 Existing road network: The masterplan area is 142 - hourly - bounded by the A229 Maidstone Road to the east and the B2097 Rochester Road to the west. These roads meet to the Table 3.1: Weekday frequency of local bus services south of the site at the Bridgewood roundabout interchange with the A229 continuing to the south via a grade-separated 3.16 Most buses used on the 101 carry a distinctive flyover and a signalised roundabout giving access to the colour scheme to create awareness of the frequent service. B2097 and the A2045 Walderslade Woods which runs to the The 101 buses are fully accessible with ramps at the south and east of the junction. entrance to allow those in wheelchairs to board and alight 3.12 To the south of the Bridgewood roundabout is with ease. The buses are fitted with free Wi-Fi capability. another grade-separated junction which connects the A229 3.17 The bus stops closest to the Innovation Centre are to the link road leading east to the M2 motorway. The M2 located adjacent to and opposite the Holiday Inn. Facilities grade separated interchange also gives access to the A2045 comprise only a bus stop flag on the southbound stop and to the east meaning that there is some route choice available a bus stop flag and shelter with seating on the northbound for drivers travelling between the A229, M2 and A2045. stop. The southbound stop is accessible via the signalised 3.13 Towards the north, the B2097 Rochester Road, pedestrian crossing further to the north across the A229. Rochester becomes the B2097 Maidstone Road, Chatham 3.18 Potential transport improvements: The location as it approaches Rochester town centre. The A229 of the site means that it is most accessible by private car. Maidstone Road continues north and meets the Horsted Whilst there are opportunities for improvements to walking, Gyratory where the A229 City Way continues north to cycling and public transport, a key consideration is the Rochester town centre and the A230 Maidstone Road, operation of major junctions in the local area. The key Chatham continues northeast to Chatham town centre. junctions are:
3.14 Walking and cycling: The majority of the existing Horsted Gyratory: Medway council has developed a three pedestrian and cycle facilities are to the east of the airport mini-roundabout improvement scheme. This is being tested with limited facilities in the vicinity of the B2097. There are
Rochester Airport Masterplan Consultation Draft ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 14 and the geometric layout fine-tuned. There may be a need include improving the frequency of services, improving bus to explore traffic lights to assist: shelters and routing the bus through the new development area. ■■ BAE traffic exiting the site in a southbound direction, although major delays have not been observed; and 3.21 There are limited opportunities to improve pedestrian and cycle access along the B2097 south of Stoney Lane. ■■ egress from the proposed new fire station which is to be However, there is an opportunity for this masterplan to located at the currently disused park and ride site. provide a pedestrian / cycle route along Laker Road. This The potential for safeguarding a strip of land around the could then be linked to pedestrian / cycle improvements to airport boundary for any future highway improvements / the B2097, to the north of the masterplan area. pedestrian or cycleway should be explored. 3.22 Should the Marconi Way access road be improved Retail Park access: At busy times there is sometimes in the future, there is an opportunity to incorporate better congestion within the retail park which can block back to pedestrian / cycle access into this. the main road. Similarly there were times when exiting the 3.23 Individual planning applications that come forward retail park was thought to be difficult. The roundabout takes in line with this masterplan will need to include a Transport a lot of Asda traffic with traffic approaching Asda from the Assessment (TA) and provide improvements, if required. south having to make a u-turn at this roundabout. The same applies to traffic heading south from the Innovation Centre / hotel. There are proposals for a new Asda at Chatham Site history and ground conditions Docks which is likely to change the catchment area of this store and may have the effect of reducing traffic on this 3.24 The 1938/39 maps show the airport and buildings. section of the road network. These consisted of hangars and a flying training school were constructed in this period. The Shorts Brothers factory is not Innovation Centre / Hotel access: This is currently a left- shown at the northern end of the site although the three main in / left-out junction. There is potential for fully signalised hangars were constructed in this period for the manufacture ‘all-movements’ junction, which could relieve the retail of Shorts Stirling Bombers, it was normal not to identify park junction by also taking the u-turning Asda traffic. This military targets on the 1930’s OS series maps. Also built at masterplan recommends that this is explored at detailed this period was the Pobjoys factory towards the northwest design stage. corner of the BAE site. Bridgewood Roundabout: No issues were identified 3.25 Little development of the airfield is shown post-war in terms of capacity or operation of this junction. This until the addition of a new hangar at the southern end of junction was not included in the Highways Agency study the site between 1990 and 2002. The BAE works to the of the M2 junction as it was not deemed to interact with north of the site grew progressively post war. The only the roundabouts or traffic signal junctions leading to the other significant change to the site is the construction of the motorway. There is potential that, if required, there was Rochester Airport Industrial Estate to the West and recent room to further increase capacity at the roundabout by construction of the Innovation Centre in the Southeast adding flares/lanes. corner. 3.19 Overall, whilst there are some existing issues of 3.26 The site was a major strategic target in World War congestion, there would appear to be opportunities to Two and was bombed three times in August 1940 leading to improve capacity. extensive damage of the Shorts factory at the northern edge 3.20 The majority of new development is proposed on the of the site. A plan has been obtained showing the location of western side of the site, where access by public transport bombs but no information has been obtained indicating that and walking and cycling is currently poor. There is an there are any known unexploded bombs. Any development opportunity to work with the operator to improve the 142 will require appropriate risk assessment as there is clearly a bus service. This service currently diverts into Laker Road, residual risk. where there are stops but no shelters. Opportunities could
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Consultation Draft Rochester Airport Masterplan 15 3.27 The site is recorded as having been mined with pipe 3.32 Local Nature Reserves (LNRs) that lie within the mines (Source: Brief History of Rochester Airport by Preston vicinity of the site include Baty’s Marsh 26 acres (10.4 and Moultion; October 1992). These were long pipes laid hectares) and is located approximately 1.5 miles (2.5km) transversely under runways and filled with explosives. north of the site, and Boxley Warren 205 acres (83 hectares) Designed to deny the runways in the event of invasion, they is located approximately 1.8 miles (3km) south of the site. were reported as having been removed but caution needs 3.33 Development of the masterplan is unlikely to impact to be taken. There are at least two other sites in the UK upon these designated sites due to the distances and where residual live pipemines have been located needing barriers (major roads and the railway) that exist between the removal and suitable precautions need to be taken in any site and these areas, which mean that accessing these sites development to ensure that all mines have been removed. is difficult. 3.28 There is generally a higher risk of contamination in areas of World War Two usage particularly the old fuel filling point and ARP shelters. Asbestos is likely to be found Safeguarding locally in made ground. It is likely that low level Radium 226 contamination could be found on site in areas of old 3.34 The height of any proposed development must take incineration. Radium 226 is typically found in luminescent account of a continued use of the airport as an operational paint on old aircraft dials. Investigations will be required and airfield. remediation may be needed as part of any development. 3.35 In 2012 Medway council and BAE Systems 3.29 Generally it is not expected that the site will contain appointed TPS to carry out an option study to study potential extensive obstructions and ground bearing on the head or aerodrome layouts to enhance the viability of Rochester underlying chalk should be adequate for normal foundations. Airport. There are reports about underground solution features 3.36 This study developed the council’s intentions to close which should be considered by developers. runway 16/34 and the construction of a paved runway. Two layout options were presented, one on the existing runway Ecology, trees and landscape alignment and the other on an alignment which is slightly rotated relative to the existing. 3.30 There is no ancient woodland within the masterplan area and no rare plant species. Some of the trees within 3.37 The cost difference between the two options was Woolmans Wood Caravan Park are subject to Tree very little and both had both advantages and disadvantages. Preservation Orders (TPOs). Any masterplan should aim Although the rotated option made better use of the shape to retain these trees and, if any are required to be removed, of the airfield and provided longer runways with fewer replace them with appropriate species elsewhere on the site. obstacles, it required changes to aircraft routes, which The wooded character of this part of the masterplan area may be difficult to achieve. The existing runway alignment must be maintained. option released substantially more land in the vicinity of the Innovation Centre. This masterplan is based on the existing 3.31 Peters Pit Special Area of Conservation (SAC) runway alignment - the precise alignment will be the subject covers an area of 70 acres (28.3 hectares) and is located of agreement with the operator, but it is expected to be approximately 1.8 miles (3km) to the south-west of the broadly as set out by TPS. masterplan area. It is designated on the basis that large great crested newt populations have been recorded breeding 3.38 TPS’s study provides ‘safeguarding’ plans here. There are two Sites of Special Scientific Interest (SSSI) which define the areas of land that may be released for reasonably close to the masterplan area. These are: development and the maximum height of buildings and other structures that may be accommodated. Figure 3.5 opposite ■■ Wouldham to Delting Escarpment (SSSI) covers 768 provides a simplified version of TPS’s safeguarding plan, acres (311 hectares) and lies approximately 1 mile (1.5km) showing the developable areas as being defined by the five south west from the site. metre height contour, with permissible height increasing with ■■ Halling to Trottiscliffe Escarpment SSSI covers 1,494 distance from the runways. acres (605 hectares) and lies approximately 2.8 miles (4.5km) north west of the site.
Rochester Airport Masterplan Consultation Draft ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 16 Position of 5 metre contour line. All development must be set back from this point
40m
5m
B2097
RUNWAY AREA
M2 motorway
5m
30m Clearance contours dictate maximum building heights
A 229
Key N Airfield taxi area
Main development opportunity areas Figure 3.5: Safeguarding showing developable areas
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Consultation Draft Rochester Airport Masterplan 17 ❚❚4 Planning policy context
develop complementary operations. This could create an Introduction economic ‘cluster’ of considerable significance. Future commercial development should be concentrated on 4.1 The planning authorities for the airport are Medway advanced manufacturing and software engineering to foster council and Tonbridge and Malling Borough council (TMBC). growth in these sectors.” As landowner, Medway liaises closely with TMBC on 4.5 The draft policy CS17: Economic Development airport-related issues. The planning policy context for the states that the ‘council particularly recognises …the masterplan area is set by: continuing opportunities at, and in close proximity to, ■■ the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF); Rochester Airfield to develop a technology and knowledge based cluster.’ ■■ the saved policies of the Medway Local Plan (2003); 4.6 The policy approach set out in the Draft Core ■■ the Medway Local Development Framework (LDF) Submission Draft Core Strategy (2012); Strategy accords with NPPF in relation to building a strong, competitive economy, particularly: ■■ the Tonbridge and Malling council Core Strategy (2007); and ■■ the requirement in paragraph 20 for local planning authorities to plan proactively to meet the development ■■ the Tonbridge and Malling Development Land Allocations needs of business and support an economy fit for the DPD (2008). 21st century; and
4.2 In addition, the following documents are of relevance ■■ the requirements in paragraph 22 to: set out a clear to the masterplan: economic vision and strategy: identify strategic sites for ■■ the Medway Economic Development Strategy for 2009 – local and inward investment to meet anticipated needs 2012; and over the plan period; and plan positively for the location, promotion and expansion of clusters or networks of ■■ the Medway Employment Land Review Consolidation knowledge driven, creative or high technology industries. Study 2010. 4.7 The Medway Employment Land Review 4.3 The Draft Core Strategy’s overall spatial vision Consolidation Study identifies the amount of land and includes reference to Rochester Airfield, and envisages it as floorspace required to provide for 21,500 jobs up to 2026. a technology and knowledge hub. The most relevant policies This study was commissioned before the Core Strategy are therefore centred around economic development at both plan period was extended to 2028 and the jobs target is the local and national level. now lower. The land and floorspace figures therefore need to be reviewed. For the moment, the requirements for the ‘M2 Access Sub Area’ are set out as 183,747 square metres (sqm) on 32.25 hectares of land. There is sufficient Economic development floorspace overall to meet the identified employment requirements. However, within the M2 Access Sub Area 4.4 The introduction to the economic development there is a deficit of potential employment land of some chapter of the Submission Draft Core Strategy states that 134,000 sqm. From a planning perspective, therefore, land the immediate strategy must be about creating the right at Rochester airfield is important to meeting the M2 Sub conditions for future growth and taking advantage of specific Area’s need for employment land. local opportunities on offer. BAE Systems at the airfield is recognised as one of the ‘specific local opportunities’ and 4.8 Chapter 10 of the Draft Core Strategy sets out area the Draft Core Strategy states: policies. In relation to Rochester, however, the potential employment sites identified in Table 10.5 of the Core “BAE Systems at Rochester Airfield. This is by some way the Strategy do not include the airfield. As the land requires area’s largest private sector employer and the company is the reconfiguration of the airfield to become available for a global leader in its field. The company itself has identified development, it has not yet been included as delivery opportunities for spin-off activities and land is available to remains uncertain until the Rochester Airport Masterplan is in place as a masterplan. Rochester Airport Masterplan Consultation Draft ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 18 4.9 Medway council’s Economic Development Strategy Estate is identified on the Proposals Map as Safeguarded 2009-12 sets out its ambition, vision and strategic priorities Employment Land. Those areas of the airport falling within for Medway’s economic growth. Rochester Airport’s future TMBC’s area are identified as ‘Urban Areas’ - Policy CP11 of development accords directly with several of Medway’s the Core Strategy seeks to direct new development to these strategic economic priorities: areas.
SP1 – sector development: This priority highlights a need to “explore opportunities for inward investment that play to the area’s particular strengths…” and also “promote sector- specific interests in relation to other priorities, not least Skills Transport and movement Development and Employment Space”. 4.14 The draft Core Strategy states: 4.10 Particular strengths at Rochester Airfield include “Facilities at Rochester Airport need reinvestment and BAE Systems and the Innovation Centre. The potential for upgrading and the current operator is working closely opportunities for growth that relate to these two existing with the council to see how this might be achieved, while uses are explored in the property market chapter of this also ensuring that adjacent land can be fully utilised report. for employment purposes (see Economy chapter). SP2 and SP3 – skills development / higher education: Investigations are ongoing and it is expected that a These strategic priorities identify specific actions to “link masterplan covering both the Airport and surrounding land skills development with proposed physical developments will be agreed in the near future.” and related short and longer term job opportunities”, and 4.15 Draft policy CS24 states that “The council will to “Encourage much higher numbers of graduates to stay continue to work with the operator of Rochester Airport to within the area, whether to establish businesses or seek objectively consider the future of the general aviation facility, employment”. bearing in mind its co-location with a strategic employment 4.11 Development of new commercial infrastructure opportunity.” aimed at producing goods and services that demand higher 4.16 More generally, Policy CS24 of the draft Core levels of skills will increase the opportunity to retain locally Strategy sets out a series of actions in relation to the trained graduates from Medway’s universities and Mid Kent transport network. These include: College. A flexible masterplan can set a framework for a range of opportunities, including a mix of commercial and ■■ The highway system will be proactively managed potentially some educational development. to minimise congestion, through the operation of urban traffic management and control systems, the SP4 – employment space: This strategic priority directly development of a quality bus network and selective identifies Rochester Airport for future development junction improvements in congestion/air quality hotspots. consideration, recommending that an appraisal of the airfield and neighbouring sites is undertaken to identify any ■■ Car growth will be balanced by increasing the capacity, additional opportunities for employment space that do not reliability and quality of public transport. prevent aviation use and are complementary to existing ■■ Walking and cycling networks will be extended, catering co-located businesses. This masterplan study provides this particularly for local journeys but also sub-regionally, appraisal. including in conjunction with new developments. 4.12 Tonbridge and Malling planning policy does not ■■ All significant development proposals will be subject include specific policies relating to the airport. In terms to an agreed transport assessment, which includes an of employment, the borough’s Employment Land Review assessment of the potential to encourage modal shift indicates that: away from private car use. ■■ B1 office requirements are expected to increase, but existing supply already exceeds this need (although this is concentrated at Kings Hill); Summary ■■ B2 requirement are set to decline, and there will be surplus of land for this sector across the borough; and 4.17 This masterplan has been produced in order to meet ■■ requirements for B8 are expected to increase. However, the requirements of the above policies to secure high quality this is expected to be accommodated on existing sites employment within the Rochester Airport area. that become vacant as B2 demand decreases.
4.13 The main thrust of Tonbridge and Malling employment-related planning policy is therefore around retaining existing employment sites. The Laker Road
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Consultation Draft Rochester Airport Masterplan 19 ❚❚5 Design framework and guidance
Introduction Land use
5.1 The purpose of this masterplan is to provide clear 5.4 Figure 5.1 sets out the Land Use Framework Plan. guidance on Medway council’s aspirations for the future of This plan sets out the land uses that will be permitted within the area, setting out parameters for the type of development each parcel. Land uses not identified on the plan and below that will be encouraged and supported. The development will not be permitted. of the area is likely to take place over several years and, as such, it is important that the masterplan is sufficiently flexible A B1 and/or B2 employment uses will be permitted. B8 to accommodate changes in market demand, transport will only be permitted if it is ancillary to predominantly modes and building technology. B1 and/B2 development. 5.2 This chapter provides a series of design framework plans that set out the key parameters for future development. B B1 and/or B2 employment uses will be permitted. B8 These are: will only be permitted if it is ancillary to predominantly ■■ Land use; B1 and/B2 development.
■■ Access; The existing Innovation Centre (use class B1) will be ■■ Building heights; and C retained. ■■ Urban design.
5.3 The chapter also provides design guidance for D Mixed-use development that supports the buildings and landscape. The framework plans and the employment function of the wider masterplan design guidance will be used to inform future detailed area is encouraged in this area. Development that designs for each part of the overall masterplan. These comprises two or more of the following uses will be detailed designs will go forward as planning applications, permitted: B1 employment, C1 hotel, ancillary A3 each supported by a Design and Access Statement (DAS). (restaurant or cafe) and A4 gym. Each DAS must demonstrate how the proposals accord with the principles set out in this masterplan. E Woolmans Wood currently operates as a successful caravan park. Should the landowners wish to bring it forward for development, B1 and/or B2 employment uses will be permitted.
F The refurbishment and / or redevelopment of existing airport buildings will be permitted. New airport-related facilities will be permitted. B1 and/ or B2 employment uses that are ancillary to airport operations (eg aircraft maintenance) will be permitted.
Mixed-use development at the ‘gateway’ to the site where it is easily accessible to the public will be supported. Mixed-use development may include the following uses: A3 (restaurant or cafe) and A4 (drinking establishment).
5.5 Operational airfield uses will be permitted within the remainder of the airport area.
Rochester Airport Masterplan Consultation Draft ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 20 BAE Systems
B A
B2097
M2 motorway A229
Railway
F C Key Masterplan boundary
Operational airfield uses D Airport-related buildings, new ancillary B1 and/ E or B2 uses, A3 and A4 uses, D1 (MAPS) B1 and/or B2 uses. Ancillary B8 may be permitted Retained as caravan park or redeveloped for B1 and/or B2 uses B1 uses, C1 (hotel), ancillary A3 and A4 uses, D2 (gym) N
Innovation centre (B1) use retained
Figure 5.1: Land Use Framework Plan
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Consultation Draft Rochester Airport Masterplan 21 Access
5.6 Access to the northern employment area (sites A and B) will be provided from the Maidstone Road, Rochester (B2097) via Laker Road and Lankester Parker Road.
5.7 A Transport Assessment (TA) will be required for planning applications in this area. The TA must assess traffic flows and junction capacity, and identify improvements if required. It is likely that the following junctions will require improvement:
1. Lankester Parker Way / Maidstone Road, Rochester
2. Laker Road
3. Laker Road / Rochester Road
5.8 Should the land leased to BAE come forward for development, the potential for a vehicular access to the masterplan area from BAE’s land shall be explored. Figure 5.2: Illustration of potential junction improvements 5.9 Reducing reliance on the private car is important. There is an opportunity to create a dedicated pedestrian / cycle way alongside Laker Road. Together with improvements to the existing network north of the masterplan area, this has the potential to improve walking and cycling in an area that is currently very poor.
5.10 There is potential for working with the bus operator 5.13 Access to the airport and southern development to improve services to the new employment area, including area (sites C, D, E and F) will be provided from the Maidstone increasing frequency, improving bus stops and routing Road, Chatham (A229). The potential for improving this buses through the new development. junction should be explored as part of more detailed design work for this area. Any planning applications must be 5.11 Should the Marconi Way access road be improved accompanied by a TA and a Travel Plan. in the future, opportunities for a dedicated pedestrian / cycle route should be explored. 5.14 Access to site D shall be provided via an access road along the western boundary of site C. This access road 5.12 In addition to a TA, any planning application(s) must could be designed to provide future access to site E, should be accompanied by a Travel Plan. The Travel Plan should set it come forward for development. out measures for reducing travel by private vehicle, including encouraging the use of public transport, car sharing, travel by cycle and on foot.
Rochester Airport Masterplan Consultation Draft ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 22 BAE Systems
B A
1
M2 motorway
B2097
Railway
2 A229
3
Key Masterplan boundary
Potential access from BAE systems
Potential junction improvements: 1 Lankester Parker Road 4 2 Laker Road 3 Laker Road/Rochester Road F C Northern access
Potential junction improvement: 4 Maidstone Road A229 D Southern access E Principal access to southern development Principal access to former caravan park if redeveloped Continued primary access to caravan park, or secondary access for future development N New / improved bus stop
Pedestrian / cycle route
Figure 5.3: Access Framework Plan
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Consultation Draft Rochester Airport Masterplan 23 Building heights
5.15 Detailed design of buildings and other structures will be established at planning application stage. Figure 5.4 opposite sets out the maximum heights that will be permitted for buildings in the masterplan area.
A Maximum building height normally two storeys. Up to four storeys permitted subject to:
B ■■ airport safeguarding considerations; and
■■ urban design justification - i.e. fulfilling requirements to create a landmark building in a specific location.
C The existing Innovation Centre (use class B1) will be retained.
Maximum building height thee storeys. Relationship D to a residential dwellings to the south of the site must be carefully considered and provide a suitable open gap.
Maximum building height normally two storeys. Three E storeys permitted subject to satisfactory relationship to adjacent residential dwellings.
Maximum building height three storeys subject to F airport safeguarding considerations.
F Height to be determined by operational requirements and airport safeguarding considerations.
Rochester Airport Masterplan Consultation Draft ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 24 BAE Systems
B
A
B2097
M2 motorway A229
Railway
F C
Key Masterplan boundary D
Maximum building height normally 2 storeys E
Maximum building height 3 storeys
Maximum building height normally 2 storeys
Maximum building height 3 storeys N
Height to be determined by operational requirements and airport safeguarding considerations
Figure 5.4: Building Heights Framework Plan
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Consultation Draft Rochester Airport Masterplan 25 Urban design -- locating new development so that buildings positively address the road and frontages are set back a consistent distance for the length of the road until it 5.16 There is an opportunity for new development to meets the boundary with the land occupied by BAE. create a distinctive, high quality employment-focussed ‘quarter’ that improves the character of the area. Figure 5.5 sets out the key urban design principles that new Southern area and airport development will be expected to incorporate, and these are explained below. ■■ The gateway from the Maidstone Road, Chatham must be designed to give a high quality approach to the airport. Buildings and landscape must be designed as a Northern area coherent whole.
■■ The key gateway from Laker Road must be designed ■■ Building frontages onto the Maidstone Road, Chatham to give a high quality approach to the employment must reflect the setback of the Innovation Centre, area. Buildings and landscape must be designed as creating a similar positive relationship with the road. a coherent whole, so that the views northwards are of ■■ The wooded character of Woolmans Wood must be attractive buildings set within a green landscape. Tree maintained. If any trees forming part of a TPOd group planting along the new access road will help to reinforce are proposed to be removed, a landscape plan shall the importance of this access. demonstrate how this loss would be compensated ■■ There is an opportunity to create a dedicated pedestrian/ through new planting. cycleway along the Laker Road frontage. The landscape and route should be designed together.
■■ Key building frontages within this gateway area must be designed to respond appropriately and positively to the views into the area.
■■ Laker Road must be given a strong, positive character that upgrades the existing setting by: -- creating a green landscaped strip along the eastern side of Laker Road, incorporating tree planting at regular intervals; and -- locating new development so that buildings positively address Laker Road and frontages are set back a consistent distance for the whole length of the road.
■■ The road leading into the development from the Lankester Parker Way / Laker Road junction is an important access point, and must be designed so that it is perceived as a major access. This design approach must include: -- designing tree planting into the street, so giving it a character and quality that contrasts with non-tree- lined streets. There will need to be designed to respect airport safeguarding height restrictions; and
Rochester Airport Masterplan Consultation Draft ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 26 BAE Systems
M2 motorway
B2097
Railway A229
Key
Masterplan boundary Building frontages set back a consistent distance from the back edge of pavement Tree planting that respects safeguarding restrictions required along key approach routes
Key gateway: buildings and landscape designed to respond positively to views into the area
Key view into the masterplan area
Key building frontage: high quality, distinctive design required to respond to view into site Major building element - high quality design required to respond to view into site Potential future building line N
Green bund softens views across airfield towards employment development
Figure 5.5: Urban Design Framework Plan
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Consultation Draft Rochester Airport Masterplan 27 Design guidance
5.17 As set out above, the masterplan will not be developed in one go, but will be built out over time. The northern employment area, in particular, will be constructed in a series of phases. A consistent and coherent approach to the design of buildings, streets and spaces is important to achieving a high quality employment quarter.
Northern employment area 5.18 This section provides guidance for the northern employment area that focuses on: Figure 5.6: Strong tree planting along the Laker Road frontage as in ■■ consistency of building frontages; this example is important to create a high quality ‘first impression’. NB: Height will need to respect airport safeguarding restrictions. ■■ consistency of height;
■■ materials and signage;
■■ landscape;
■■ street hierarchy and design; and
■■ parking and servicing.
5.19 Consistency of building frontages: The most important way of achieving a coherent layout is to design buildings so that the frontages are set back a consistent distance from the back edge of pavement. Secondly, Figure 5.7: Above and building frontages must be designed to positively address left: Consistent building the street that serves them. This means that: heights help to give a coherence even though ■■ buildings should be setback a consistent distance from materials vary. the back edge of the footway for the entire length of the street. This setback distance may vary between streets of different types within the overall layout;
■■ building fronts should face the street that serves them, with windows and a main entrance fronting onto the street. The rear of buildings must not address the street;
■■ wholly blank elevations to the street must be avoided - some windows and doors are essential;
■■ the setback from Laker Road is especially important to creating a high quality first impression to the employment area. The setback must accommodate a linear row of tree planing in a grass verge of similar vegetation and a pedestrian / cycle route. Figure 5.8: Breaking the general maximum height is appropriate for ‘landmark’ buildings in specific locations.
Rochester Airport Masterplan Consultation Draft ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 28 5.20 Consistency of height: Figure 5.4 sets the maximum height parameters for each part of the Masterplan area, with the height within the northern employment area normally being two storeys. The following principles apply:
■■ single storey buildings will be permitted, but these must be located so that they form a coherent group;
■■ single storey buildings must not be randomly located amongst two-storey buildings;
■■ single storey buildings should not normally be located on key viewlines into the site. Where they are located on key viewlines, the buildings shall incorporate a two storey element specifically designed to respond to the viewline; and Figure 5.9: Building designed to respond to its corner location. ■■ buildings higher than the normal two storeys will be permitted only where they perform a clear urban design function - for example, a cluster of three storey buildings defining a key junction of major streets.
5.21 Built form, materials and signage: Employment buildings are essentially simple rectangular buildings. However, there is a risk that very simple buildings are (i) monotonous in appearance; and (ii) difficult to understand - where exactly is the main entrance? Built forms that help to create richness and variety are encouraged, for example:
■■ defining the main entrance through the use of projecting bays and a change in materials; Figure 5.10: Different approaches to creating ■■ creating a vertical rhythm that breaks down the bulk of an richness. Above: a otherwise large building - for example, by expressing the clear corner and defined vertical structure that underpins the building; and entrance. Right: vertical rhythm creating by ■■ creating strong corner elements that respond to projecting bays and a viewlines. change in materials.
5.22 Using a reasonably limited palette of materials can help support the coherence created through consistent building lines and carefully considered heights. Materials that endure over time (such as brick) are generally preferred. However, it is recognised that lightweight cladding is often appropriate to employment buildings. Where such lightweight materials are used, roof overhangs need to be carefully considered so as to ensure that cladding is protected and is not adversely affected by rainfall - i.e. overhanging roofs are preferred.
Figure 5.11: A limited palette of materials helps create a coherent development.
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Consultation Draft Rochester Airport Masterplan 29 5.23 A consistent, limited palette of materials should be used for groups of buildings along the same street. The palette of materials may vary across the site, but must be used in a controlled manner to create distinct character zones, avoiding a random visual appearance.
5.24 Locations for company signage should be positively designed into building elevations, so that signs stuck onto buildings are avoided. The location of signage should normally be consistent across building groups. However, where a building is designed specifically as a landmark, its signage may vary from the buildings around it.
5.25 Landscape and street hierarchy: Good design of streets and spaces is critical to achieving a high quality employment hub. A key aim of this masterplan is to secure a development where the design of the streets helps (i) to Figure 5.12: A The two main vehicular entrances must be designed as promote a high quality identity; and (ii) people to understand distinctive ‘boulevards’ that promote a high quality identity. where they are within the area and find their way around.
5.26 Figure 5.5 sets out the basic principles of the urban design framework, which seeks to:
■■ improve Laker Road through tree planting and consistent building frontages, so creating a high quality first impression; and
■■ create two key vehicular entrances, one from the corner of Laker Road and one from Lankester Parker Way.
5.27 The two streets that form the key vehicular entrances must be designed to look and function as the most important streets within the northern employment Figure 5.13: A The visual impact of car parking should be reduced - for example, through landscaping. area - that is, be at the top of the hierarchy of street types. These streets must include tree planting to create distinctive boulevards that contrast with other streets in the area. This approach will not only create a high quality first impression but also help people find their way around the development - to use the urban design jargon, these two distinctive streets will help create a ‘legible’ place.
5.28 The area will include a large amount of car parking. Parking areas should be designed to be attractive by:
■■ avoiding large areas of tarmac, breaking up the surfacing with block paving or other appropriate materials; Figure 5.14: A Whilst the majority of car parking should be to the rear of ■■ reducing the visual impact of parked cars through buildings, it is helpful to locate a small amount of visitor and disabled parking at the front, along with cycle parking for visitors. landscape such as trees and hedges; and
Rochester Airport Masterplan Consultation Draft ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 30 ■■ creating clear, direct pedestrian routes through the car Existing employment buildings park to building entrances. 5.34 The existing employment buildings on Laker 5.29 Parking and servicing: The location and design of Road are in a range of different ownerships. As and when parking and servicing areas can have a significant impact proposals for improvements or redevelopment come on the appearance of employment areas. The aim of this forward, the council will encourage these to be in line with masterplan is to minimise the visual impact of car parking the principles set out for the development of the northern and servicing on the ‘public’ side of the buildings as far as employment area. That is: possible by: ■■ where possible, buildings should meet a consistent ■■ locating the majority of car parking to the rear of building line as shown in Figure 5.5 on page 25; buildings. Large areas of parking in front of buildings ■■ the heights of buildings should generally be two storeys. should generally be avoided; Where single storey buildings are proposed, two storey ■■ encouraging rear parking areas to be designed as elements (e.g. a corner providing office accommodation) positive courtyards that are shared by more than one are encouraged; unit; ■■ use a limited palette of materials that reflects the material ■■ locating some visitor parking at the fronts of buildings used in the new buildings on the opposite side of Laker and - where appropriate - on street so that visiting drivers Road; can easily understand where they are meant to park; ■■ design refuse and servicing areas so that they are to ■■ design delivery and maintenance areas so that they are the rear or side of buildings - avoid locating them on the to the rear or side of buildings, incorporating turning Laker Road frontage; areas away from the main public ‘fronts’ of buildings. ■■ where refuse storage areas are visible from Laker Road, 5.30 The buildings onto Laker Road are unlike other screen them to minimise their visual impact; and buildings in this area, in that they need to positively front ■■ continue the approach of locating the majority of Laker Road but potentially will mainly be served from within car parking between buildings rather than in front of the northern development. This means that they do not them. Design boundary treatments onto Laker Road have clear ‘fronts’ and ‘backs’, and will therefore need to to minimise the visual impact of cars and reflect the be designed to look two ways. Car parking in front of these landscape approach on the northern employment area - buildings will be permitted, but must be well designed and i.e. include tree planting where possible. landscape to minimise the visual impact of parked cars and avoid a long, uninterrupted run of car parking. There are opportunities to locate servicing between the buildings. Southern area and airport 5.31 Cycle parking for employees should be designed 5.35 This section provides guidance for the southern area into the schemes. Cycle parking should ideally be provided and airport that focuses on: within buildings. Where it is provided outside, it should be provided with a canopy and be well overlooked for security. ■■ building lines along the Maidstone Road, Chatham;
5.32 Cycle parking for visitors should be provided at the ■■ built form, materials and signage; fronts of buildings. Such cycle parking need not be covered. ■■ landscape; and
5.33 All buildings must include well-designed refuse ■■ car parking and servicing. stores that enable paladins and other refuse containers to be stored out of sight.
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Consultation Draft Rochester Airport Masterplan 31 5.36 Building lines along the Maidstone Road, 5.43 Airport gateway: There is an opportunity for Chatham: The Medway Innovation Centre is a very positive redevelopment of the airport to create a welcoming public building, projecting a high quality image and identity. New gateway to the airport. This could include relocating the development to the south of it should reflect its quality. As Medway Aircraft Preservation Society (MAPS) and including set out above, a consistent building line helps to achieve new uses such as a cafe / restaurant. High quality buildings a sense of coherence - new buildings should therefore be that reflect the site’s historic and current use as an airport will setback the same distance from the back edge of footway be welcomed. as the Innovation Centre.
5.37 Built form, materials and signage: Whilst this masterplan does not seek to dictate the style of new buildings within the southern area:
■■ the Innovation Centre’s palette of materials should be used as the basis for new buildings along the Maidstone Road frontage; and
■■ the scale and massing of the Innovation Centre should be reflected in new buildings.
5.38 Signage should be positively designed into building elevations, so that signs stuck onto buildings are avoided.
5.39 Landscape: the frontage onto the Maidstone Road should be designed to extend the same landscape treatment as adjacent to the Innovation Centre.
5.40 Any future development of Woolmans Wood should preserve the wooded character of this site.
5.41 A green bund shall be provided along the western boundary of the airport land. This must be designed to soften views towards the employment area from the east. The highest part of the bund must be below five metres.
5.42 Car parking and servicing: Car parking and servicing must not be located between new buildings and the Maidstone Road. As with the existing Innovation Centre, parking to the sides of buildings is permitted so long as landscape is designed to minimise its visual impact on the Maidstone Road frontage.
Rochester Airport Masterplan Consultation Draft ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 32 ❚❚6 Illustrative masterplan
Key
B2 employment
Mixed-use development
Mixed-use development
Data centre or B2 employment Potential for new airport - related or employment buildings
Potential for new uses (such as MAPS and cafe/restaurant) to form welcoming public gateway to the airport N Existing airport buildings improved / redeveloped by operator
Figure 6.1: Illustrative masterplan
©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 Consultation Draft Rochester Airport Masterplan 33 Rochester Airport Masterplan Consultation Draft ©TIBBALDS JUNE 2013 34