Currently I am supporting London Ashford Airport, Lydd, at their planning inquiry in Folkestone. The long standing and controversial plans to expand this small airport near Dungeness will be determined following the inquiry. I believe that aviation is one of mankind’s greatest technologies and is capable of becoming a sustainable transport mode. Airports are a necessary component of aviation, and if properly planned and operated, can minimise and mitigate impacts such as noise; emissions to air, ground and water; and on ecosystems. The ecosystem at Dungeness is unique and amazing, but following a great deal of work, I am confident that the airport can co-exist with bird reserves, and support valuable flora and fauna on the airfield.