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Council warns minister over 'ill-informed' infrastructure decisions

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Suffolk County Council has urged the government to prevent the closure of a key Civil Aviation Authority department that helps protect local airfields and communities.

Why it matters: The Civil Aviation Authority's Airfield Advisory Team provides guidance on ensuring infrastructure projects don't compromise airfield safety across Suffolk. The team is currently involved in decisions about major developments, including pylons and solar farms.

The big picture: The team is set to close after March 2025. According to the council, it currently provides expert aviation guidance for:

  • The proposed Norwich to Tilbury pylon project

  • Solar farm developments

  • Wind turbine installations

What they're saying: "The effective and technical advice that we have received from the Airfield Advisory Team has been essential to a number of projects that we respond to on behalf of Suffolk's communities," says Councillor Richard Rout, Suffolk County Council's Deputy Cabinet Member for Nationally Significant Infrastructure Projects.

Context: In July 2024, Suffolk County Council formally objected to the Norwich to Tilbury pylon project, stating that nine airfields could face "serious implications" from the proposals.

Key concerns raised:

  • Future infrastructure projects could lack aviation expertise in their planning

  • Planning decisions may proceed without specialist scrutiny

  • Safety considerations around airfields could be compromised

  • Effects of developments like solar glare and pylon placement may not be properly assessed

The bottom line: The council has written to Aviation Minister Mike Kane requesting a review of the closure decision. The letter can be read in full on the council's website.

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Police appeal after golf ball attack damages historic Landguard Fort

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Over 40 golf balls were driven at Felixstowe's Landguard Fort, causing mortar damage to the historic structure's outer wall.

Why it matters: The damage constitutes an offence under the Ancient Monuments and Archaeological Areas Act 1979, which protects historically significant sites.

Inside the Landguard Fort in Felixstowe
Inside the Landguard Fort in FelixstoweGetty Images

The details: Suffolk Police reported that the incident took place between 17:00 on Monday, 10 March and 09:00 on Tuesday, 11 March.

The golf balls were driven from a grass mound outside the fort on Point View Road, with some projectiles clearing the outer wall and landing in the inner parade area.

What's next: Officers are urging anyone who witnessed the incident or has information about those responsible to come forward.

How to help: Contact Suffolk Police quoting crime reference 37/13803/25 via:

Alternatively, information can be provided anonymously to Crimestoppers on 0800 555 111 or through their online form.

The bottom line: This act of vandalism has caused damage to one of Felixstowe's most important historic landmarks, which is protected by national legislation.

Oliver Rouane-Williams speaking with an elderly couple in the town centre

We can't do this without you!

If you value strong, free, independent local media that fights tirelessly for our town, please consider contributing just £24 per year

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