Runway project ‑ update

The refurbished main runway (14-32) has been in operation for almost ten weeks so I thought I would take this opportunity to give you an update.

As you are aware, the benefits from the work on the runways will increase over the next two to three years, as the grassroots and soil structure matures. The aim has always been to provide long-term, sustainable improvements in both the performance and wet weather recovery.

However, there are some undulations along our main runway which are not part of the design. Please be assured that this is being investigated thoroughly and a repair scheme will be developed to ensure it meets the exceptional standard of the project. This is very frustrating for us all, and once we have the solution I will write to you again.

Also, to complete the project there will be two further phases, most likely during the winter/spring of the 2018 and 19 seasons. This will be planned to minimise disruption and allow the runway surfaces re-establish.

I hope you have had the opportunity to use the runways, and I’m sure you will agree it is a very different experience from what we had before. Thank you for your continued patience and support for this project, and for the great feedback received so far.

Very best regards

Dave Ford & the Project Team

Runway 06-24

This runway will open again shortly. We have held back on using this runway regularly to allow deeper root zone and a matured soil structure. This will give us the best chance of supporting winter operations. There has also been some standing water along the southwestern edge, so we have supplemented the drainage in this area to ensure water finds its way to the main perimeter drain.

Next six months

Over the next six months, we will be resting and treating the surfaces to ensure that they are in the best condition for next season. This does not mean that the runways will be closed throughout the winter, but traffic will be managed carefully. We will keep you fully informed.

Maximising flying this winter

To maximise flying operations over the coming months a further £12,000 has been spent on repairing runway 28-10 from its wear sustained earlier in the year.