It has been talked about for years, but it looks like it’s about to happen. But this time, rather than building a new runway from scratch, plans are afoot to upgrade the existing northern runway which is currently only used for taxiing and emergencies.
This will still require significant investment and building works, despite using existing resources. The centre line of the existing northern runway will have to be moved 12 metres further north. There will also be major infrastructure developments to provide the buildings to support the additional traffic.
It is expected that an investment of £2.2 billion will be required and will result in an additional 100,000 flights a year. This would increase the annual volume of passengers from the current 33 million to 75 million by the 2030s.
Whilst this may be good for jobs in the area and makes it easier for locals like us to travel overseas, environmental campaigners are very concerned about the development.
Councillor Jonathan Essex, Surrey County Council’s Green Group leader, commented, “Gatwick Airport’s expansion is not only unacceptable on climate grounds but it will also make noise, air pollution and traffic worse locally. Instead of falling for Gatwick’s inflated promises the Government should commit to creating the new jobs needed to deliver a zero-carbon future across the surrounding area – a Green New Deal for Gatwick.”
What do you think?
The planning inspectorate has accepted the plans for examination, meaning they are now looking for the public’s opinion. Those affected now have until Sunday, October 29, to register and say they are an interested party. Doing this means you will be allowed to give your opinion at a later date.
You can register online using the link below. You will need to give your full name, address, contact details and some comments about the project. In your response you should also mention what you believe the main issues and impacts of the project are.