Loss of Gatwick slot destroyed airport
FOLLOWING visits to Plymouth and West Devon records office in Coxside, I am writing in length with quotes from different reports 50 years ago that are still relevant today.
Notes for deputation visiting Minister of Aviation, November 2, 1961: "Plymouth the one big concentration of population on the South West Peninsula, is a large city in an isolated position. Nearest airport is Exeter 45 miles by road. Local industries need airport. New industries will be reluctant to locate here. We can't afford not to have a fast mode of transport, as the roads get busier."
Report by the Airport Sub Committee of the Junior Chamber of Commerce, November 1969: "The airport is particularly well sited being some four miles from the city centre, easily accessible from the eastern side of Cornwall via the Tamar Bridge, Tavistock from A386, towns to the east via A38. The City's largest industrial site is within half a mile at Estover."
Airport Development and Facility Report, 1962: "This is one of the most important services which could benefit the citizens of Plymouth. Not only the businessman, but every day traveller and those seeking overseas airline connections."
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It is my view that the main obstacle in Plymouth to restarting air traffic, is the loss of its landing slots at Gatwick. Someone made a fortune in selling those.
STAN GRIFFITHS
Coxside
Comments
by 10thattempt
Tuesday, October 16 2012, 10:18AM
“When I used to have meetings in London at 10am I looked at flying.
It was a similar price than the £200 or so train fare including parking and transfer from Gatwick to London, but the timings made it no better for getting there, and meant I'd need to leave very early or very late, so the train was actually quicker.”