A CAMPAIGN group is calling for a restriction on flights and noise levels over the New Forest.

The Campaign for National Parks is asking the Department of Transport (DfT) to restrict noise levels and flights that travel over the national park.

The recommendation comes after an inquiry into the use of UK airspace by the Transport Select Committee, who according to the CNP has recognised the importance of protecting the national park.

The CNP says that in 2003 the Civil Aviation Authority gave the go-ahead to extend flights over the New Forest despite a number of objectors raising serious concerns.

Alex Thursby from the CNP said: “For too long aviation policy has allowed decisions to be made about the use of airspace over National Parks without proper regard for the significant, negative impact that aircraft can have on the setting below.

“National parks are places of great beauty that have been protected for the peaceful enjoyment of everyone. Clearly, allowing busy aerial highways overhead destroys that.”

A spokesperson for the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA), who determine airspace policy for Bournemouth and Southampton airports said: “The CAA carefully considered the environmental impact of the Airspace Change proposal, along with safety concerns and the need to make the most efficient use of airspace.

“The change is expected to result in a reduction in carbon dioxide emissions per flight and noise levels will be well below both the level marking the onset of significant community annoyance and the level likely to disturb sleep.

“The impact on tranquillity was taken into account in reaching the decision to approve this airspace change.”

Last year a High Court judge shot down legal action by the National Park Authority over Christchurch Borough Council’s decision to give planning permission to the airport expansion.

The NPA was arguing that sufficient heed had not been paid to the national park’s needs but this was dismissed by the judge.