The sky’s the limit with new RAF Valley runway investment

RAF Valley is looking forward to many more years at the heart of Anglesey life after its longest runway is resurfaced.

It will take around a year for the work to be completed, but station commander, Group Captain Brian Braid explained to Ynys Môn AM Rhun ap Iorwerth that it is a vital investment in the future of the RAF’s main fast-jet pilot training base.

Group Captain Brian Braid recently assumed command of Royal Air Force Valley, and is delighted to be back at the base at which he himself was trained as a pilot.

He and Mr ap Iorwerth discussed a number of issues surrounding the work of the RAF on the island, including the new runway, the potential to develop more civilians flights, local employment opportunities among the 1000-plus civilian workforce, and concerns about aircraft noise.

Rhun ap Iorwerth AM said: “RAF Valley is a very important employer on the island, and it is an important part of my work as the island’s representative in the Assembly to work closely with Group Captain Braid and his team to ensure that the relationship between RAF Valley and the community remains a good one.

“The base can be developed for more civilian flight opportunities, in addition to the Cardiff flight, and that’s an exciting prospect. Aircraft noise is an issue that has been brought to my attention on a number of occasions, and I have corresponded recently with the MoD and Welsh Government on this matter.”

He added that the new runway resurfacing is vital for the future of the base, and said he hoped disruption to the surrounding area during construction would be carefully controlled and kept to a minimum.