Walloon Government Ordered to Compensate Residents for Liège Airport Noise Pollution

The Brussels Court of Appeal has mandated the Walloon government, Liège Airport, and FedEx Express Belgium to compensate hundreds of residents affected by noise pollution from Liège Airport, marking a significant legal victory for those whose homes have been rendered “uninhabitable” by persistent aircraft noise.

Residents living in close proximity to the airport, including some outside the areas defined by the Noise Exposure Plan (NEP), have argued that the incessant noise has not only disrupted their daily lives but also significantly decreased the value of their properties. This ruling addresses their grievances and aims to provide some financial relief to those affected.

In its ruling, the Brussels Court of Appeal emphasized the urgent need for action, ordering the Walloon Region to implement a comprehensive monitoring and penalty system for noise violations within the next six months. Failure to do so could result in “significant” financial penalties, putting pressure on the regional government to address the residents’ concerns swiftly and effectively.

The court’s decision comes in the wake of Liège Airport receiving a renewed operating permit in 2022, allowing it to continue its activities until at least 2043. This permit was granted under strict new conditions intended to mitigate noise pollution. However, residents have expressed dissatisfaction with the measures taken thus far, claiming that the noise levels have remained intolerable.

According to L-Post, the compensation amount ordered by the court could total several million euros, providing a substantial financial remedy for affected residents. Many have reported that the relentless noise from aircraft has made it increasingly difficult to enjoy their homes, leading to increased stress and a decline in their quality of life.

The ruling highlights a growing concern about the balance between economic development and environmental health, as airports like Liège play a crucial role in regional logistics and transportation. The court’s decision underscores the necessity for airports to operate responsibly and consider the well-being of the communities surrounding them.

Residents are now hopeful that this ruling will lead to meaningful changes in how noise pollution is managed. “It’s a relief to finally have our voices heard,” said one resident who has lived in the area for over a decade. “We just want to live in peace and know that our homes will not be devalued by the noise from the airport.”

The Walloon government’s commitment to establishing an effective noise monitoring system will be critical in determining the future relationship between Liège Airport and the surrounding communities. If successful, it could serve as a model for other regions grappling with similar issues related to noise pollution from aviation operations.

As the deadline approaches for the Walloon Region to demonstrate compliance with the court’s order, the community remains vigilant, hoping for a resolution that prioritizes both the economic importance of Liège Airport and the quality of life for its residents. The case has sparked a broader dialogue about the need for accountability and effective governance in managing the impact of infrastructure on local communities.