Why not look at Ostend as the perfect example. Like Manston it is located close to a seaport (2 of the largest ones in Europe such as Antwerp and Rotterdam). Also like Manston it is about 1.5 hours away from a large airport (Brussels). And like Manston, it has its hopes set on cargo, aircraft recycling and the low cost carriers. And like Manston (sorry for repeating that), it is failing completely, and would not survive if it were not for the Belgium government pumping money into it. Secondly I've said it before and I will say it again, Manston supporters do not give a toss about the airport, this is only about the fear of immigrants and housing. It is a disgrace that Manston supports try to refer back to WW2 heroes for their actual non-aviation related agenda.