From Gerard Baudains.
I WAS amazed to read (JEP, 5 February) that our Airport authorities are requesting a property with SSI protection – given to the Island and existing long before aircraft were even invented (never mind our Airport being built) – should be demolished on the grounds of safety. This is outrageous, and I hope the Planning Minister tells them where to get off.

The safety issue stated – with the blackmail threat of the Airport closing down if they don’t get their way – is nonsense.

Firstly, either the property is a danger to flying or it isn’t. If it is, and as the house existed long before the Airport, why have planes been allowed to fly since it was built? Presumably the issue includes aircraft size. If so, why not restrict size to fit the safety envelope – or is there an ulterior motive to allow larger aircraft to land?

Secondly, the crash quoted as supporting the call for demolition was by a light aircraft which, if I recall correctly, was attempting a landing in conditions beyond the pilot’s competence. So not only was the proximity of the house not the cause of the accident as alleged, but if indeed it does present a danger to light aircraft, then surely any houses far beyond that must be demolished as well to ensure safety of larger aircraft?

The whole thing is a nonsense. I recall the tragic loss of life when a Dakota crashed at the top of Mont Fallu. Only the air hostess survived. Does that mean that all the houses around that field should likewise be demolished?

I do hope the Planning Minister does not allow himself to be bullied into allowing the demolition of a house which, apart from not being the danger it is alleged to be, was a gift to the Island – and is a Site of Special Interest to boot.
Glen-Moor,
Le Vieux Chemin,
St Clement.