Radlett Airfield Site

Opened the debate

Daisy Cooper highlighted the negative impact of a proposed strategic rail freight interchange on the former Radlett Aerodrome site in her constituency, which would convert 3.5 million square metres of green belt land into industrial space and disrupt local communities. She pointed out that approving this project conflicts with government commitments to protect green belts and meet housing targets. The proposal has caused significant disruption to rail commuters and concerns about environmental damage. Cooper also raised issues related to the impact on roads, village life, and potential redundancy due to new freeports policy and London Gateway container terminal. She called for a review of the plans and urged the Government to let local people decide how to use their land.

Government Response

Minister Christopher Pincher acknowledged the concerns raised by Daisy Cooper regarding the strategic rail freight interchange at Radlett Aerodrome. He explained that once a planning decision is made, it becomes legally binding and cannot be overturned without justification. The site's future lies with developers and landowners, not government officials. Pincher reiterated the Government’s commitment to support rail freight interchanges due to their environmental and economic benefits. However, he noted that the St Albans local plan has failed to keep pace with legal requirements, leading to delays and interventions by planning inspectors. He highlighted recent government reforms aimed at streamlining the planning process, including a new 30-month statutory timetable for local plans and proposals to put green belt protection at its heart. The Minister stated that significant sites like Radlett will have development principles agreed upon upfront in future local plans, ensuring greater certainty and quicker processes.