A Suffolk MP is calling on constituents to have their say on the positioning of new flight paths in the south of England.

Air traffic provider NATS, and London Gatwick are nearing completion of a consultation on proposed changes to flight paths supporting London City, Southend and Biggin Hill airports.

Authorities have called on people from Suffolk and Essex to help shape future routes by January 21.

South Suffolk MP Tim Yeo said: “News of a fresh NATS consultation will be met with apprehension following our previous campaign against excessive aircraft noise in tranquil areas.

“This should only have a small impact on south east Suffolk. However we must make sure that our precious tranquillity is not destroyed so I urge all my constituents to check the details. Phase Two will focus on Stansted and I pledge my support to anyone who may be adversely affected by future proposals.”

The data will be used to help establish new routes which offer the most benefit and the least impact, with a focus on reducing the impact of aircraft noise.

However, NATS and Gatwick are warning people living and working in the consultation areas that while some may not notice a change in flight numbers and some may see a reduction, others may experience a significant increase.

Tom Denton, of London Gatwick, said: “Aircraft have to fly somewhere, so we really need local people to look around their communities, imagine the impacts of being overflown more than today, and feedback on sites and businesses this could have a detrimental impact on.

“Even if you are already overflown by aircraft now, you could find that once the lines are drawn onto maps you be affected more, and that is why we really need local people’s help to ensure new routes have the least impact possible.”

Paul Haskins, of NATS, said: “We are asking everyone to assume that a new route may go over them.”

To have your say, visit www.londonairspaceconsultation.co.uk