Now that the runway extension is done and dusted, was getting bored so decided to have a look at the "Navigators Quarter" development, which includes the AGS land to the east of the runway, what used to be the 10/28 grass runway many many years ago.
This development is outlined in a website:
https://www.navigatorquarter.co.uk/
You may find it amusing to look at the home page graphics to see what some clown has done to show the runway extension!
The proposed development includes three parcels of land, "Railside" (the current old Locomotive Works site), "Riverside" (east of Campbell Road) and "Skyside" (the AGS land).
On a positive note "Railside" could benefit SOU as the current large/high Loco Works sheds will be demolished. These are a potentially weight limiting obstacle for RWY 02 departures. The question is "how will it be accessed?". All that is currently available is the narrow Campbell Road bridge, with two sharp bends on it. Must be great fun navigating an articulated truck around it.
Same question for "Riverside", only current access is Campbell Road bridge. Doubt if the Campbell Road residents are going to be impressed with all the extra traffic.
Finally, the one that I've previously been banging on about, "Skyside".
Firstly the "SAM" VOR/DME will need de-commissioning, has been talked about in past as part of an on-going NATS UK VOR reduction plan, anyone know the latest on when it goes?
Then of course is the issue of access. Would appear that the only viable option is around the north end of the runway. Just how is this going to work? In a past life the proposed site development was discussed with the somewhat naive view that "no problem, we will install traffic lights which ATC can control", the ATC response was to tell BAA where they could stick their traffic lights, and of course it was not north of the runway!
The next, potentially amusing episode is awaited.