Dáil Éireann Debate, Tuesday - 4 July 2006
446 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for Transport the plans for Weston Airport; his views on plans to expand activities there; the outcome of his meeting with a group (details supplied); and if he will make a statement on the matter. [25606/06]
View answerThe plans for Weston Aerodrome are a matter for the Aerodrome itself as it is a privately owned, non-State aerodrome, which has been operating since 1938.
Weston Aerodrome is licensed by the Irish Aviation Authority (IAA) in accordance with the Aerodrome and Visual Ground Aids Order (SI 334 of 2000) and in issuing the licence the Authority's remit extends to aviation safety standards. The Local Authorities are responsible for land use planning at and in the vicinity of Weston aerodrome in accordance with the Planning and Development Act (Number 30 of 2000), including the nature and extent of operations at the aerodrome.
In addition, the IAA is a notice party under the Planning and Development regulations (SI No. 600 of 2001) so that details of any development with the potential to endanger or interfere with the safety, or safe and efficient navigation of aircraft are sent to the IAA. The issues of flight paths, minimum flying heights and safety regulation are also the responsibility of the IAA. I understand that the IAA is satisfied with safety standards at Weston. If there are any plans to expand Weston this is a matter for the Aerodrome, as long as it complies with planning requirements, which are a matter for the local authorities, and safety requirements, which are a matter for the IAA. My Department has no statutory role in these areas. However it is the duty of Weston to ensure that it acquaints itself with all requirements affecting its activities and to ensure that it complies with those requirements.
In recent years the development of areas surrounding Weston has resulted in large residential areas being built up quite close to the Aerodrome. I met with the Weston Residents Group on 5 April 2006. I appreciate and understand that many residents have concerns about the development of Weston and these were expressed to me at the meeting. It is my desire that any development at Weston should take account of the concerns of local residents, with appropriate consultation and discussion of all relevant matters.
