Just joined ppune, so this my first comment.
Having operated from Lydd regularly for the last 3 years the pace of improvement is fantastic, and the number of movements continues to increase,. If you havenīt been there recently, give it a try.
With regards to the length of the ILS approach the airport is aware of this and are trying to get it shortened. There are 2 other problems with the approach,
1. Try finding the hold at ROMTI acurately in a basic equiped light aircraft.
The old NDB LYX has been replaced by LZD, named after the airport manager Zak Deir.
2. Joining th 14 DME arc puts you in close proximity to the very active gliding site at Challock.
We were all sorry about the loss of staff but fueling etc does not seem to be a problem. Its quite handy being fueled by the fire department, you invariably have the fire truck standing beside you, or in very close proximity!
When carrying out visual circuits a downwind dog leg is required when approaching the Dungerness Nuclear Power Station. If you are unfamilar with the limits, contact Lydd ATC, there are reduced minimum distances for light aircraft.
Be aware that the Anti runway extension group are very active and the police have been known to observe aircraft in the power station area.
Normally there are very few delays for VFR departures at LYDD, however when an aircraft is on the ILS you can be held at holding point C or asked to orbit downwind.
The airport restaurant now serves good food, its very popular with the locals at the weekend.
On the subject of who would use it, us in GA. As far as medium/heavy aircraft are concerned I donīt think that Lydd is likely to be a new LGW.
Manston has a chance if in connection with the 2012 olympics a fast rail line can connect it with London.
But who cares, we have a rich arab who is willing to put money into the airfield, and when his lease is up in 30+ years we will have a modernised airfield.
If you realy want to get depressed look at the nimby web site
www.kentnet.org.uk/laag/index.htm , if not donīt bother.