Opposition to plans to move Luton Airport's holding stack to the rural skies continues to grow – despite concerns that residents are being left in the dark.

The plans, revealed on this website last month, would see up to eight planes circling from 7,000ft as they wait to land at Luton Airport.

But this week Gamlingay Parish Council voiced concerns over serious implications the plans could have for the rural community, and urged people to lodge their strongest objections with the National Air Traffic Service.

Leanne Bacon, clerk to the council, said: "The figure given as an anticipated noise level for the lowest aircraft stacking in a holding pattern is up to 60 decibels for the noisiest aircraft, equivalent to a busy general office.

"A recent national newspaper article stated that 57 decibels is described by the Government as being 'significant disturbance'.

"Also, noise levels are almost impossible to quantify, as they are affected by a huge range of factors, so the real noise implication of aircraft stacking over a rural area may be far worse."

Mark Lynn, who lives in Gransden, said: "We chose to live in a quiet rural area and manage without the facilities that more built-up areas can offer. It sounds like the days of enjoying the peace and tranquillity we all value so much could become a thing of the past."

For more information visit www.consultation.nats.co.uk
Alternatively, to voice your objections, write to NATS at TCN Consultation, Freepost, NAT 22750, Reading, RG1 7BR