Medway Conservatives have been left appalled at comments made by members of Medway’s Labour Party criticising job creation plans at Rochester Airport.
Plans put forward by Medway Council involve improving Rochester Airport by updating public facilities and increasing access, and also creating up to 1,000 jobs.
Additional proposed improvements include providing a paved runway to allow a wider variety of aircraft to use the airfield and to do so in a quieter manner as aircraft climb higher, faster. A parallel grass runway will be kept to allow heritage aircraft, such as the Spitfire, to continue using the site.
Commenting on the scheme, Cllr Jarrett, Deputy Leader and Portfolio holder for Finance said:
“Comments from the Labour Group suggest they haven’t read all of the cabinet reports, as they erroneously think that only one business, an adjacent restaurant/ café, will benefit; in fact there will be many high tech business employing up to a 1,000 people.
“This scheme is about sensibly regenerating one of Rochester’s best assets by providing the resources necessary for job creation and securing a future for this much loved local facility.
“To suggest that this scheme is economically flawed demonstrates a complete lack of understanding and is one of the reasons why Medway’s electorate has continued to return the Conservative Party with increased majorities in the 13 years we have been in control.”
Local Rochester South and Horsted ward councillors, Trevor Clarke, Sylvia Griffin and Rupert Turpin said:
“We are disappointed but not surprised at the comments from members of the Medway Labour Party.
Labour have long wanted to be rid of Rochester Airport and seem to have scant regard for the wishes of the local population who greatly value its presence. These proposals not only safeguard this community asset for years to come but will see enhanced airside facilities for Medway’s residents to enjoy and a new aviation heritage facility that will support and showcase the work of Medway Aircraft Preservation Society alongside the job creations.”
