AN abandoned airport that was forced to close more than a decade ago has revealed plans to restart flights in the next four years. Manston Airport in Kent has faced a number of protests from locals in recent years after announcing plans to reopen. However, Tony Freudmann, main board director at RiverOak who owns the airport has said that they could soon relaunch flights.
This was after a judicial review into plans was not upheld. The only downside is that the flights would initially be just cargo and freight flights first - so Brit holidaymakers may have to wait longer. Mr Freudmann said: "If you a freighter operator wanting to export goods to a city in India or Indonesia , you can not get it out of the UK.
"You have got to go to Charles de Gaul or Frankfurt. It's ridiculous." He also hit back at claims that it would be a "highly-polluting cargo hub" saying new technology would let it be the "greenest airport in the country".
Another complaint was late night flights - something Mr Freudman said also wouldn't be allowed under the planning development order. He added that the only exception would be for delayed flights due to weather or other conditions". The redevelopment will take around 18 months and hopes to create as many as 2,500 jobs .
General Manager Gary Blake said: "There are no more legal challenges ahead so we can put the pedal to the metal and go full steam ahead." It is hoped that if the freight services are successful, it could lead to airlines rejoining the airp.
