Petition against helicopters flying low over village near Leamington

Concern residents in Lighthorne Heath near Leamington have launched a petition against frequent low flying helicopters over the village.

Upper Lighthorne parish councillor Ben Robinson has launched the online petition on behalf of Lighthorne Heath residents raising concerns about the frequency of helicopters landing at and taking off from Aston Martin’s Gaydon headquarters nearby.

The luxury sports car company says that, while not all of the flights can be attributed to the company, “it is working proactively on measures to minimise the disruption to its neighbours” but that the flights are “essential to its business activities”.

Cllr Robinson has said: “Living in Upper Lighthorne for many years, I have witnessed first hand the increasing number of helicopters flying at dangerously low altitudes over residential areas during landing procedures.

"The constant noise disturbance has disrupted peaceful moments with family and friends, making it difficult to enjoy outdoor activities or even hold conversations within our own homes.

"Furthermore, the excessive noise caused by these low helicopter landings not only affects our quality of life but also poses potential risks to our physical and mental health.

"Studies have shown that prolonged exposure to high levels of noise can lead to stress-related illnesses such as hypertension, sleep disturbances, impaired cognitive function, and even cardiovascular diseases.”

More than 100 people have now signed Cllr Robinson’s petition.

In response, Aston Martin has said: “As a global business, Aston Martin sometimes welcomes international investors, high value customers and supplier partners to our Warwickshire headquarters, some of which choose to arrive by air.

"Whilst these helicopter movements are essential to our business activities, we are working proactively on measures to minimalise disruption for our neighbours.

"This matter remains part of an ongoing planning process.”