Big news for Gatwick Airport! The £2.2 billion project for a second runway has been approved, paving the way for 100,000 more flights each year. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has given the green light, calling it a “no-brainer” for economic growth.
The new runway will boost the economy by £1 billion annually and create 14,000 jobs. The plan is to move Gatwick’s emergency runway 12 metres north, allowing it to handle departures of narrow-bodied planes like the Airbus A320s and Boeing 737s. The first flights on the new runway are expected before 2029!
Amidst concerns about noise and environmental impact, the airport has promised to cover costs for triple-glazed windows for affected residents and offer financial help for homeowners choosing to relocate. Gatwick has committed to setting ambitious public transport targets for passengers, addressing environmental concerns as part of the process.
Critics, including Green Party leader Zack Polanski, argue the expansion is a “disaster” for the environment. However, supporters like shadow transport secretary Richard Holden see it as a vital step for economic growth and connectivity.
Gatwick remains confident in its thorough assessments of transport, noise, and housing impacts, despite opposition from local campaigners and environmental groups. They’re bracing for potential legal challenges but remain optimistic about unlocking trade and tourism benefits for London and the UK.
Stay tuned as we watch how this ambitious plan unfolds! ✈️🌍