Councils express concern over increased Birmingham Airport night flights, citing a lack of crucial flight data from Solihull.
Solihull approved more flights between 11 PM and 6 AM. This allows the airport to meet rising demand. North Warwickshire Council also objected at the last moment, wanting to review data first. They represent Atherstone, Coleshill, and Polesworth.
Jeff Brown, North Warwickshire’s planning head, disagreed, saying Solihull felt no consultation was needed, believing it would not affect North Warwickshire. Now, Warwick says they asked for similar data as they also cover Warwick, Leamington, and Kenilworth.
The airport says more night flights are needed for demand. Councillor Aizlewood learned about this at an Airport meeting. He represents Kenilworth Abbey & Arden. Chris Elliot, Warwick’s chief, explained the issue to the cabinet.
He said they’re still waiting for the requested information and environmental health officers asked questions. Warwick filed an objection due to lacking data, so they couldn’t fully explain their exact worries, causing political outrage at the meeting.
Councillor Day urged the leader to contact Solihull’s leader. He serves Bishop’s Tachbrook and said night flights greatly affect people especially in parishes by his area, noting the increase is noticed, even in winter.
Councillor Day added this hurts parishes more and thinks receiving no response is impolite, as the flight paths impact them greatly. Councillor Falp stated the issue affects residents she serves, representing Whitnash residents.
Falp thinks Solihull deeply disrespected their councillor and officers. She urged the leader to write to Solihull as she believes they should address the issue. Councillor Sinnott, representing Warwick Saltisford, also agreed with concerns.
Councillor Sinnott stressed the existence of an important principle. He believes Warwick needs to voice their concerns because they gave thoughtful, measured responses, yet Solihull ignored them. Davison confirmed the matter remains under review. Courts has yet to respond to an invitation to comment.