Noise concerns see planning application for two Chinook simulators refused
Army chiefs in Colchester have seen their planning application for Chinook training simulators refused due to concerns over noise.
The Ministry of Defence (MOD) had applied to have two purpose-built machines installed at Merville Barracks.
Blueprints suggested usage of the simulators would have been between 07:30 and 18:00, with 12 hours of evening use a month, it has been reported.
A number of objections to the plans came from local people concerned about the level of noise the simulators would create.
One objection said the equipment would be "extremely noisy" and asked if the simulators could be put "somewhere else".
Another said they were "concerned by the lack of consultation with local residents, particularly due to the severe disturbance" the simulators could cause.
They said: "I believe this project will cause significant noise disturbance, impacting our quality of life, stress levels and possibly value of my and other neighbouring properties".
The large machinery would have used hydraulics and sat on top of concrete pads to facilitate improved training for Army personnel at the base.
The results of an assessment concluded that residents on nearby roads would see a "significant" increase in noise during night operations.
Colchester Garrison chiefs have now signalled their intention to put forward a revised application.
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