Thames estuary airport

On 11 March 2010, renowned civil engineer Douglas E Oakervee will appear before the Environment Committee to brief Members about the Mayor’s controversial proposals to construct a new airport in the Thames estuary. Mr Oakervee, who has experience in constructing airports on artificial islands, was asked by London Mayor Boris Johnson to conduct an initial feasibility study of the proposal on a pro bono basis.

The Mayor’s idea has attracted substantial opposition: Medway Council and Kent County Council, as well as some wildlife groups, have raised objections and numerous politicians have spoken out against the proposal.

Members have agreed that at their meeting with Mr Oakervee they will discuss the potential environmental impacts.

Mr Oakervee’s report for the Mayor proposed constructing one or more artificial islands, possibly off Whitstable on the Kent coast. This would be connected to the mainland by structures that could serve as roads, railways, flood barriers or tidal power generators. The mainland connections would go to both the Kent and Essex coasts, making the structure function as a bridge or barrier across the whole estuary. The feasibility study found the integration of the infrastructure could offer savings and that it was possible to construct such an airport in the Thames estuary, but recommended further major work on the technical environmental and economic benefits of the airport.

For more information, please contact Ian Williamson, email ian.williamson@london.gov.uk.

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