Editor:
In your Oct. 30 edition, the District of Sechelt posted a notice regarding the “proposed” Sechelt airport runway expansion. The expansion, which has been in the planning stage for many years, is in my opinion now a done deal and the request for public feedback becomes a mere formality.
I believe the primary intent of the runway expansion is the district’s desire to introduce regular commercial flights of aircraft such as the Dash 8-Q400. These are large turbo-prop aircraft that emit incredible levels of noise during approach, takeoff and landing. The length of runway could also permit private jet landings, although this is not mentioned in the plans.
Planning documents on the district’s website illustrate that airlines will be solicited to deliver up to four flights daily to and from the Sechelt airport. Therefore, eight flights overhead daily.
The lower Sunshine Coast, which is already seeing high volumes of low-flying aircraft, will be subjected to noise levels not experienced to date. All areas could be affected on any given day depending on which direction the wind is coming from and aircraft are flying.
I do not believe any real public consultation has ever taken place in regards to this project. Nor has any information been provided to area residents on potential noise impacts, flight paths, times, etc.
Enhancing tourism traffic and our link to YVR will be better served by focusing on improving ferry services.
I urge anyone concerned about this project and lack of public consultation to email the District of Sechelt at [email protected] or write to Sechelt Airport, PO Box 129, Sechelt BC V0N 3A0, prior to the cut-off for feedback on Dec. 14 and to also speak with their councillors or SCRD area director without delay.
Kevin Rea, Roberts Creek
