Helicopters
Landing In Barrasford - What Do You Think?
Residents of the village of Barrasford in Northumberland
UK are divided in their opinions about the Elwood helicopter
facility on their doorstep.
In
a poll on Barrasford.net over the passed year a staggering
78% of voters have expressed displeasure at the frequent
helicopter flights over Barrasford.
In
contrast, the supporters of the long standing helipad state
the fact that the amenity operates legally and has no real
drawbacks.
For
a number of years the previously tranquil village has been
subjected to hundreds of helicopter flights in and out of
Barrasford. No public consultation took place prior to the
facility opening for business.
One
disgruntled resident explained to Barrasford.net that the
protest is based upon a number of concerns:
- Noise
Pollution - The Elwood helicopter facility allegedly
receives multiple flights each week which could frighten
the elderly due to the fact that their is never any
prior warning about the noise levels. Helicopters often
fly close to the local primary school, this could affect
the education of local children and may cause worry
to parents.
- Environmental
Issues - The noise from the Elwood Helicopter facility
in Barrasford is alleged to disturb the peace and tranquility
one would expect from a village situated a few miles
from the Northumberland National Park and Hadrians Wall.
- Safety
Concerns - The volume of aviation traffic could
pose a safety risk. The chance of an incident involving
a helicopter is at its greatest when helicopters take
off and land. There is however no fire protection or
public safety plan in place should a serious event ever
occur. The Elwood Helicopter facility in Barrasford
may store aviation fuel. The nearest fire stations are
located over seven miles away at Hexham and Bellingham.
- No
Community Benefits - The Elwood Helicopter facility
does not employ anyone or inject any benefit in to the
local community.
Another
resident contacted Barrasford.net to say he was "'sick
to the teeth' with that blessed airborne nuisance"
and has urged someone to begin a petition against it.
Other
residents have expressed concern that this could have a
negative impact on property prices.
Despite
the protests, not all Barrasford residents are against the
Elwood helicopter facility.
Those in favor of the unique rural amenity cite the fact
that businesses, the military and even VIP's are believed
to use the Elwood helicopter landing pad on a regular basis.
Supporters
also state that helicopter noise is minimal in contrast
to low flying military aircraft that have flown throughout
Tynedale for decades. The noise from blasting at Barrasford
Quarry is loud. The facility operates legally and puts Barrasford
on the map, at least for helicopter enthusiasts.
No
doubt the controversy behind the scheme will continue. What
do you think? Contact
us with your views on this emotive subject.
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