City Airport Development Programme (CADP)

The airport lies in the heart of the London Docklands and is surrounded by residential and other mixed uses. It is therefore in a sensitive location to aircraft noise, air pollution, traffic and other environmental effects. However, importantly, the CADP scheme was founded on a desire to accommodate larger but quieter and more fuel efficient ‘new generation’ aircraft, which would actually lead to a reduction in noise and other emissions over time. It would also promote sustainable surface access travel choices, introduce energy efficient buildings and plant, sustainable drainage systems and other environmental improvements.  Our challenge was to demonstrate these net environmental benefits in an objective and scientifically rigorous way through the Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) process.

The then Mayor of London directed refusal of the CADP application against the earlier decision of the London Borough of Newham to resolve to grant planning permission.  This was on the sole ground that they considered that inadequate noise mitigation measures were to be provided.