SAS,
I am talking initial training to get the necessary handling skills required. Yes, once the individual has demonstrated proficiency then take them to other places as part of their approved training.
Fairoaks has a confined area just off airfield that can be seen by ATC.
How many PPLs do mountain flying as part of there basic training? So no need for a pinnacle on the airfield.
Unfortunately the helicopter industry in the UK is blighted by cowboys trying to buck the system and cut corners to make a quick buck and the rest of the industry is paying the price. So don't be surprised that the CAA have to write the regulations to cover every angle because as the flight safety poster says "You can't make it idiot proof because idiots are ingenious"
FNW