Orpington MP Jo Johnson has voiced concerns that a temporary extension of Biggin Hill airport's flight limit could set a precedent for future expansion.  Airport bosses have applied to Bromley Council for an extension in operating hours during next year's Olympics and Paralympics, and residents are being asked to contribute to a public consultation which ends on July 29.

But Mr Johnson – the younger brother of London Mayor Boris Johnson – says any such arrangement should be a one-off.  "We don't want to set a precedent that enables the airport to have permanently extended hours of operation and an increased number of flights," he said.  My concern is that while wanting to support this national event, we don't want in the process to create the conditions for Biggin Hill to turn into a mini or maxi Luton or Stansted. 

"My bottom line is that the existing lease offers Biggin Hill plenty of scope to take full advantage of the commercial opportunities offered by the Olympics. I haven't seen the evidence that suggests extra flights are needed.  I can't speak for everyone but a very clear majority of my constituents are very concerned about these plans."

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