07 May 2003: Leixlip Town Council has submitted an appeal against the decision of South Dublin Council to allow Weston Limited to demolish existing hangers and build new new hangers and other accommodation and aircraft parking at Weston Aerdrome.
The council has objected on the grounds of aircraft noise and of safety.
The objection notes that when the application was originally made the level of air traffic movements at the Aerodrome was stated as 44,000. It subsequently emerged the level of movement at the Aerodrome was in fact 144,500 movements per annum significantly above the level stated. When an explanation was sought by South Dublin Council into this disparity, there was no obvious explanation on file.
The council says a significant noise nuisance already exists in the neighbouring communities to the Aerodrome, including Leixlip. While the Aerodrome has been operational since the 1930's and pre-dated the large scale development of Leixlip and other surrounding communities, the level of traffic has increased over the years.
Weston is the main training area for the country, and most of the flight movements are concentrated on a very confined area, many being training circuits. The objection says that on a fine weekend when the Aerodrome is most active it is not untypical to have a plane fly over every 2-4 minutes.
"While no one doubts the expertise of the training personnel one would have to question the large scale nature of training movements over such a heavily populated urban area," the council says.
The objection says the council is 'alarmed' by the statement from the Applicants contained in a reply to further information "will ensure that the existing noise profile is not altered over and above the present use capacity".
"It is felt by Leixlip Town Council that planning application provided South Dublin Council with an ideal opportunity to address some of the noise issues but we are very disappointed that they failed to take that opportunity. This proposed development must be seen, because of the potential public safety issues as a very sensitive development.
The council says it 'fully accepts' that the Aerodrome has been there for a considerable number of years and is not objecting to its continued use. "We are seeking a situation that would allow both the neighbourhoods surrounding the Aerodrome to co-exist in a way that produces less conflict."
