Resident’s joy after government climb down over Jurby airport plan

Earlier this month a map was discovered as part of the Public Inquiry into the Draft Area Plan for the North and West

Reference to the potential future use of Jurby Airfield and the extension of its runway will be removed from the Draft Area Plan for the North and West, which is currently being considered by an independent planning inspector.

Instead, the Department of Infrastructure's Airport Division has committed to full engagement, including focused workshops with communities that may be affected, as part of its masterplan for Ronaldsway Airport.

The masterplan will explore any long-term strategic mitigation options for Ronaldsway, which could include further consideration of Jurby Airfield.

For now though, home owners within the proposed development area can rest more easily.

One of them is Vicki Wade:

In a statement, the DoI it's revised its submission to the Area Plan for the North and West, removing references to a potential future expansion of the airfield in Jurby, with the revised submission published online. 

"Safeguarding for the Jurby Airfield and the surrounding land has been in place since 2004.

"The department will engage with the local community in the autumn to fully explain the need to continue to safeguard land around the airfield and what expansion, if any, might mean for those living and working in and around Jurby. 

"The Airport Masterplan, which is currently being developed, will explore plans for improving and enhancing the current facilities in the south of the Island and will include the role that Jurby Airfield currently plays and what may be required in the long term future to ensure the Island’s air connectivity is protected."