Ely Model Aircraft Club has had its flying time increased following lengthy debate by East Cambridgeshire District Council’s planning committee.

The club applied for several changes to conditions on its planning permission following a recent name change from Fenland Flying Club.

It wanted to increase flying time for electric models in order to meet the needs of members with work, school and travel commitments.

The club based at Hive Road between Witcham and Wardy Hill wanted to extend the hours until dusk, but planning officers felt it could have a ‘harmful effect’ on the amenity of nearby residents.

There were also concerns about the imprecise nature of the term ‘dusk’.

Miles Foster, who lives in Wardy Hill, 800 metres from the site, objected to the application.

He said claims the electric aircraft were very quiet or silent were “misleading”, adding that some had an “unpleasant, penetrating whine”.

As a result officers suggested a temporary permission to allow monitoring.

The committee agreed temporary permission for 12 months for flying to take place from 10am to 8pm on Mondays to Saturdays and 10am to 6pm on Sundays and bank holidays.