The Wildlife Festival is happening at Brighton City Airport, also known as Shoreham Airport. Tickets have sold out in a couple of days and the line-up is announced. I have to admit to being pleased that the council authorised the festival despite the fact that I am not into the bands and artistes booked.
Despite the misgivings of some local residents this is an event that had to be approved. The Airport has the potential of being a hugely beneficial local facility as long as it is allowed to develop as a business. I have been involved with the airport for over 25 years due to my links with the RAFA Airshow. During this time I have seen the potential for the airport frustrated by the fact that it was owned and operated under the auspices of 3 councils while located within the area of a 4th council, all of varying political views. The airport management tried their best to grow the operation but, because of the various councils involved, it was never allowed the opportunity to be a viable business. Finally it has passed into private hands and can now be developed as a revenue earner for the owners. We must accept that it is not going to be highly profitable as a business based purely on flying. There are physical constraints regarding the size of aircraft using the airfield, the number of landings, hangar income and fuel sales. Additional revenues must be earned and reinvested for the benefit of the airport, associated local businesses and the wider community.
The development and management of the commercial buildings around the perimeter is in the hands of one company whilst the airside operations are handled by another. It is the airside operation that is vital to the long-term success and survival of this the oldest operating UK airfield, possibly the oldest in the world. The world’s first recorded commercial flight flew from Shoreham to Hove on 4 July 1911. Not only is it historically important it is also one of Europe’s prettiest airfields with the back drop of the downs, Lancing College and the River Adur. The Terminal building is a listed art deco glory that is being restored at considerable cost. The airside operation has inherent costs for services that have to be provided irrespective of any landings and take-offs. Air traffic, fire protection and health and safety all need trained people to be on-site during operating hours.
I remember when the Airshow had only just started, I was selling tickets in the terminal building and local people were heard to comment that they did not realise the airfield was open to the public all year. Their mind-set was that it was only for pilots and flying club members. Thankfully over the years residents have discovered the gem on their doorstep and now enjoy the facilities. The terminal building has a lovely restaurant and bar, fully refurbished in 2012, which hosts live music as well as serving good food. There is a visitor centre and museum offering guided tours. The memorial installed by Gerald Spicer has now been fully refurbished and is managed by a small charitable organisation as a community facility. The airport is home to several flying clubs as well as pilot training schools, pleasure flight operations and private hire services.
Returning to my opening comments the Wildlife Festival is important to the survival of the airport. It is organised by a team of professional event managers who fully understand the concerns of those opposing it. The council imposed restrictions that have to be met in regard to noise, crowd management and health and safety. As with all new ventures there may be some issues that come to light during the event. Over the years we had to adept the Airshow as it grew to meet local concerns. But I am confident the event will pass with minimal problems and we can look forward to Shoreham Airport becoming a successful venue that will bring benefits and pleasure to the local and wider community.
Wildlife in Shoreham
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