Overview

This bill establishes an Airport Environment Watchdog to monitor and report on the environmental impact of airports in England and Wales. The watchdog will investigate pollution levels, review airport procedures, and make recommendations to improve environmental protection, potentially imposing fines for non-compliance.

Description

The bill creates a new body, the Airport Environment Watchdog, appointed by the Secretary of State. Its duties include monitoring the environmental impact of all airports in England and Wales, reviewing airport procedures for managing pollution, and ensuring information about this impact is accessible. This includes reviewing the adequacy of procedures and controls for managing air and noise pollution, and ensuring that interested parties have access to information on the environmental impact of each airport. The Watchdog will produce annual reports, publish them, and send copies to the Secretary of State who must then publish a response. The Watchdog can conduct investigations following complaints, and make recommendations, including the imposition of fines for non-compliance.

Key Responsibilities:

• Monitor environmental impact of airports.
• Review airport procedures for pollution control.
• Publish annual reports and recommendations.
• Conduct investigations and impose fines.

Government Spending

The bill states that any expenses of the Secretary of State under the Act will be paid from money provided by Parliament. No specific figures are provided in the bill itself.

Groups Affected

• Airport owners: Will be required to provide information and may face fines for non-compliance with recommendations.
• Local authorities and residents near airports: May see improved environmental protection and have a channel for raising concerns.
• Environmental groups: Will have access to information and a body to advocate for stronger environmental standards at airports.
• The Secretary of State: Responsible for appointing the Watchdog and responding to its annual reports.

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