The expansion of Gatwick Airport has taken a significant step forward as the UK government tentatively backed plans to shift an existing runway 12 meters northward. Gatwick has projected that the new runway could be operational by the end of the decade. This plan, which involves converting a current taxiway into a fully operational runway, aims to bolster the airport's capacity. However, it has attracted strong opposition from climate campaigners and local residents due to concerns about environmental impact and increased local disturbances.
Gatwick Airport officially opened in 1958, initially equipped with a single runway and an additional taxiway. The latter was expanded to serve as a backup if the main runway became unavailable. In 1979, a legally binding agreement was established between Gatwick's owners and the local council, stipulating no new operational runway would be built for at least 40 years. As this agreement has now expired, Gatwick is proposing a privately funded £2.2 billion scheme to bring the backup runway into regular use by shifting it 12 meters northward. This move is necessary to comply with safety regulations that require a minimum distance of 210 meters between runways.
The planning application for Gatwick's expansion includes provisions for additional buildings, flyovers to connect with local roads, and expanded rail links to accommodate increased airport activity. The government is required to submit further information on this planning application by April 24, with a fresh consultation scheduled before a final decision is made on October 27.
"There remains the possibility that the final decision could be subject to legal challenge which would lead to further delay," said Paul Maile, head of planning and infrastructure consenting at Eversheds Sutherland.
"It is probable that it will still be several years before work is likely to start, at the earliest," Maile added.
In addition to legal challenges, climate campaigners have voiced their opposition, arguing that expanding airport operations would hinder the UK's efforts to meet its climate obligations by increasing emissions. Local residents have also expressed concerns about potential increases in traffic, noise, and pollution that could accompany the airport's expansion.
Despite these objections, Gatwick Airport maintains that the expansion is essential for meeting future travel demands and supporting economic growth. The proposal's tentative government approval marks a critical milestone in the project's progression.