North Yorkshire councillors have given the go-ahead for the redevelopment of Bagby Airfield which has been at the centre of a long-running planning row.
Permission has been granted to upgrade the facilities at the airfield near Thirsk and make it more suitable for private aircraft making international trips.
The decision comes after years of legal battles which have seen several public inquiries, compensation paid to residents by the former Hambleton District Council, and the Yorkshire Air Ambulance moving its base from the site.
Under the plans approved by North Yorkshire Council’s Thirsk and Malton area planning committee yesterday (Wednesday), existing hangars will be demolished and rebuilt, and a new museum hangar will be erected.
Accomodation for pilots and aircrew will also be created, while retrospective permission was granted for a new clubhouse and control tower.
Other improvements will include a charging point for electric aircraft and landscaping work.
The application was submitted by owner Martin Scott, who wants to change the airfield from one used by hobbyist aircraft and microlights to a higher quality facility for modern turbo-prop aircraft, which are quieter and have lower emissions.
It is hoped these aircraft would use Bagby as a stepping stone and base for longer haul trips.
Planning officer Craig Allison told councillors in a report: “The applicant advises that the transition is predicted on providing upgraded high-quality hangarage capable of accommodating the more modern aircraft safely and securely.
“Facilities (would be provided) to accommodate UK Border Force inspections for in/outbound flights to EU and/or Non-EU destinations, upgraded taxiways, a safe and secure runway able to operate in all-weathers, alongside an upgraded and enhanced recreational offer through the clubhouse, museum and short-stay accommodation.
“The applicant sets out that the proposed transition will secure greater levels of income, supporting the future sustainability of the airfield.”
Boost the economy
The applicant said the changes would lead to fewer movements from the airfield and fewer aircraft circling over nearby houses.
The business case also highlighted a boost to the local economy from the upgrade.
Restrictions on the maximum noise made by aircraft was increased by 1.9 decibels to allow different types of aircraft to use the airfield.
But environmental health officers advised that the change would not be noticeable.
The plans and proposed investment into the airfield were welcomed by councillors.
Councillor Alyson Baker, who represents the Hillside and Raskelf division, which includes the airfield, said: “This is tidying up in the physical and in the planning sense of the airfield and I welcome it.
“I welcome the fact that hopefully this will move the relationship, that has been not very good, forward.”
The application was approved by members with six in favour and one abstention.