Gatwick Airport’s £2.2bn (US$3 bn) second runway scheme has been approved by transport secretary Heidi Alexander, giving the West Sussex hub the green light to expand capacity by an additional 100,000 flights each year.
The privately financed project will see Gatwick’s emergency runway shifted 12 metres north, enabling it to handle narrow-bodied aircraft such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737. The development is forecast to create 14,000 jobs and generate up to £1 billion in extra economic activity. A government source has described the plan as a “no-brainer” for growth, with the first flights from the new runway expected by 2029.
The scheme had previously been rejected by the Planning Inspectorate, but later won support after adjustments were made. These revisions cover noise mitigation measures and targets for more passengers to use public transport when travelling to and from the airport. While the “mode share” targets are not likely to be legally binding, ministers believe they will help ease local concerns.
Residents affected by increased aircraft noise will be offered compensation packages. These could include funding for triple-glazing or, for those wishing to move, contributions towards estate agent fees and stamp duty.
Officials argue that the expansion plans are legally robust and capable of withstanding environmental challenges. They also believe the project can go ahead without breaching the UK’s carbon budget.
As reported by The Guardian, the government is determined to head off opposition by emphasising both the economic benefits and the mitigation measures in place, presenting the runway as vital to the country’s long-term connectivity and prosperity.
