Airports to produce 'master plan'

Airport master plans could help residents understand developments

Three airports in the region have been asked by the government to submit master plans for future development.

Leeds-Bradford, Humberside and Doncaster Robin Hood airports are among 30 nationwide expected to produce the statements by the end of this year.

Aviation Minister Tony McNulty said the plans would "help local people to understand the scale and impact of proposals for airport development".

They would also assist planning bodies in drawing up development plans.

Airport operators are also urged to outline the impact of their proposed developments on people, the environment, and their plans to minimise these effects.

The government has issued guidelines for operators on preparation of the master plan.

"The guidance will give airport operators a clear indication of the range of issues which the government would like them to address as part of this process," said Mr McNulty.

The government expects draft master plans to be submitted by the end of the year and the final versions by December 2005.

After publication, each airport's master plan will be updated regularly to reflect any changing circumstances.