CAMPAIGNERS have responded to Northern Powerhouse's survey about Leeds Bradford Airport's expansion.

LBA’s planning application seeks permission to extend daytime flying hours by 90 minutes, lasting from 06:00 to 23:30, and change night time flying controls. It also aims to build a new terminal.

The application forecasts an increase in passengers from 4 million per year to 7 million, with 16,000 more flights per year. There is no proposal to cap the number of flights or passengers.

Chris Foren, Chair of GALBA, said: “The results are interesting but the questions asked do not appear to be about LBA’s actual planning application.

"We’re pleased to read that half of people surveyed said that any approval of the airport’s expansion plans should be ‘contingent on a limit placed on the number of flights it operates.’

"But here’s the thing - LBA isn’t proposing any limit on the number of flights it operates! So, we don’t understand why Northern Powerhouse asked that question.

"Obviously, we’ve only seen press reports so we’ve asked for a copy of the survey questions and answer options. We haven’t had a response.

"We do know this: if LBA’s application is approved, it would mean at least 16,000 more flights per year, 3 million more passengers per year and a massive increase in greenhouse gases and noise.”

Chris continued: “So the survey is interesting but it appears to ask people about a fantasy planning application, not LBA’s actual proposals.

“LBA’s planning application is very controversial, with many differing and strongly held views.

"So, let’s have it dealt with at an independent public inquiry, where all the evidence can be considered by civil servants and lawyers with expertise in planning law.”