Gatwick Airport has published a revised noise action plan stating what methods are going to be carried out in a bid to reduce noise pollution levels.

Following recent consultations with the community, the steps now included in the document - that was released today - could improve the quality of life for residents in west Kent.

The plan claims the airport will:

• Explore whether ‘rotating respite’ can be provided to communities most affected by noise from aircraft – potentially benefiting more than 11,000 residents
• Explore other innovative methods to minimise noise - such as the airport’s continuous descent approach, where aircraft use less thrust by gliding and descending at a continuous rate. This approach keeps the aircraft higher for longer and generates significantly less noise.
• Consult with local residents on the measures above.
• Request that the Department of Transport (DfT) explores ways to describe and measure aircraft noise more clearly to help people understand noise impacts.
• Ask the DfT to undertake research on effects of aircraft noise on human health.
• Commission public studies on noise impacts on particular areas.

It also outlines Gatwick's commitment to minimise the impacts of aircraft noise and states that 99% of the aircraft currently used are of the quietest type possible.

However, at a Southborough Town Council meeting this month, members of the public complained about the use of the Airbus 320 range by flight operators including Easyjet.

The aircraft creates a very loud whining noise, which Sir John Stanley, Tonbridge and Malling MP said is 'damaging' for the people of west Kent.

Gatwick said it is hoping to employ effective and credible noise mitigation schemes which includes its industry's noise insulation scheme which provides homes with up to £3,000 towards double glazing and loft insulation.

This scheme has also been expanded by 15km each end of the runway so that 40% more homes are protected from noise than before.

The company pledges to engage with the local community better to understand their concerns and priorities so that the airport's noise strategies and plans are well informed.

"We understand that noise has an impact on our local communities and we strive to do everything possible to mitigate its effect" - Tom Denton...

Gatwick has introduced an annual noise seminar and is committed to reporting annually on the airport's performance.

Tom Denton, head of corporate responsibility at London Gatwick said: "We have reduced noise generated by the airport in recent years, but we are not complacent.

“Our revised Noise Action Plan demonstrates how Gatwick will employ some of the world’s most innovative methods to reduce aircraft noise. Our plans will also evolve and we will adopt the latest advances in technology and leading practices as soon as is practicably possible.”

The airport said the noise it generates has steadily been reduced in the last six years and this is demonstrated by the land area covered by the noise levels reducing from 94.5km² to 85.6km² during this period.

In response to the proposed changes to Gatwick noise action plan plan Richard Streatfeild, Chair of the High Weald Councils Aviation Action Group, representing 10 parish and town councils said: "We are keen to work with Gatwick as they explore these options.

"The residents of the High Weald have known for some time that planes into Gatwick come in too low, and too frequently over the same area causing great harm to local businesses, quality of life, the environment and personal health. The true test will be whether Gatwick can turn these explorations into action."

Will this plan improve the quality of life for people in west Kent? Send your thoughts or questions to arthomas@thekmgroup.co.uk