A SUFFOLK MP who has received an “avalanche of correspondence” over flight path changes has secured a Parliamentary debate on the controversial issue.

Dave Gooderham

A SUFFOLK MP who has received an “avalanche of correspondence” over flight path changes has secured a Parliamentary debate on the controversial issue.

Residents have raged over the proposed plans which they claim would shatter their idyllic lifestyles and also significantly affect the local economy around the Newmarket racing industry.

Richard Spring, West Suffolk MP, has now secured a debate in Parliament on the plans to change current flight paths and stacking arrangements for Stansted airport.

“I have consistently raised concerns about the possible change of flight paths that will affect so many of my constituents,” said Mr Spring, who recently met with bosses at NATS which proposed the changes.

“Last week I joined campaigners from across the county to protest against the proposals outside NATS' headquarters. Suffolk already suffers from aircraft noise from the military bases located in Mildenhall and Lakenheath. I fear that the proposed changes will further put at risk the tranquillity of the area.”

Mr Spring also voiced concerns about the negative impact the changes could have on the horse racing industry.

He said: Newmarket is the home of horse racing. The area provides breeding and training facilities for up to 3,000 horses, with more than 7,000 jobs dependent on the industry. It also significantly contributes to the local economy. This is now all under threat.

“This simply cannot be allowed to happen. Next week in Parliament I will make that plainly clear, on grounds of tranquillity for the county's residents both human and equine alike.”

The debate will take place on Wednesday in Westminster Hall and will be replied to by the Transport Minister Jim Fitzpatrick.