Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has officially approved plans for a second runway at London Gatwick Airport, a move anticipated to significantly boost economic growth and air travel capacity. The £2.2 billion privately-financed project involves repurposing the existing Northern Runway, extending terminals, and aims to increase flight capacity substantially.
Key Takeaways
- Gatwick Airport’s plans for a second runway have been approved by the Transport Secretary.
- The project, costing £2.2 billion, will involve moving the current Northern Runway and expanding terminals.
- The expansion is expected to increase flight capacity from 280,000 to 389,000 flights annually by the late 2030s.
- The decision has drawn praise for potential economic benefits but faces strong opposition from environmental groups concerned about climate impact and noise pollution.
Economic Growth and Capacity Boost
The approval is seen by the government as a significant step towards fostering economic growth, with a government source describing it as a "no-brainer for growth." The project is expected to enable Gatwick, currently Europe’s busiest single-runway airport, to handle up to 80 million passengers annually, up from over 40 million currently. The plans aim to increase annual flights from approximately 280,000 to around 389,000 by the late 2030s. Initially, the Northern Runway, currently used for taxiing or as a backup, will be brought into regular use, allowing for an additional 40,000 flights. Once fully operational, it will accommodate 70,000 more flights annually.
Environmental Concerns and Mitigation Measures
Despite the economic projections, the expansion faces considerable opposition from environmental campaigners and local groups. Concerns have been raised about the impact on air quality, noise pollution, and climate change commitments. In response to these concerns, Gatwick Airport has agreed to stricter noise controls and an enhanced insulation scheme for nearby residents. A key condition is that 54% of air passengers must use public transport before the Northern Runway opens. To meet this, the airport has highlighted the need for support from third parties, including the Department for Transport, to improve public transport links, such as reinstating the full Gatwick Express rail service.
Political Reactions and Future Implications
The decision has drawn mixed political reactions. While welcomed by some as a vital step for economic growth, critics argue the approval should have come sooner. The government has emphasized that any expansion must align with climate change commitments and environmental requirements. The approval follows similar expansions at other airports, such as Luton, and comes as the government also considers a third runway at Heathrow. Campaign groups have vowed to take legal action through judicial review, citing the potential negative impacts on residents and the environment.
