SAFEGUARDING MAPS & CHARTS FOR LICENSED AND UNLICENSED AERODROMES

Now that all licensed aerodromes are responsible for self-safeguarding, you may be concerned about the number of routine planning applications that you will receive from the Local Planning Authorities (LPAs). A way to filter out some of these applications is to have a safeguarding map prepared as recommended in the new legislation, CAP 168, and CAP 738. Such a map is lodged with LPAs enabling an initial check of an application to be carried out.

If the CAA used to be responsible for your safeguarding, it will have provided a final safeguarding map to your LPAs. Hopefully this map represents the current operational situation (it's worth checking). However, in due course you may introduce changes to the airport such as new runways or extensions, or new navigation aids such as ILS. As it is important that these changes are reflected in the safeguarding map it may be necessary to have a new one prepared - one that has all the limiting surfaces marked on it.

If, like the majority of aerodromes, you have always had the responsibility for safeguarding, it is strongly recommended that you have a map prepared. However, if you have limited resources, you may wish to consider the overlay option below.

The CAA-recommended map format is given in CAP 738. In association with its partners, maps prepared by ASD meet or exceed all the requirements of CAP 738. They are overprinted on OS colour ground mapping at 1:50k scale, show all the licensed runways and strips with their approach and takeoff surfaces, airfield outer, horizontal and conical surfaces (physical safeguarding), and take into account navigation aids (technical safeguarding) and other limiting surfaces. The grid squares are colour coded showing the maximum height (AGL) to which building may take place in that square. The maps are optionally available in electronic format for GIS.

Having received your map it is vital that it is used effectively. If LPAs are unfamiliar with safeguarding or the map's use, a seminar can be arranged on general safeguarding responsibilities and on the use of the map in particular.

ASD can help the many airfields that cannot justify the expense of a full safeguarding map. In addition, we can provide a cost-effective height assessment package.