Holidaymakers can anticipate a significant enhancement as Gatwick airport’s proposal for a second runway has been given the green light. The approved plan aims to accommodate up to 80 million passengers with around 100,000 additional flights annually. It is projected that the new runway could be operational by 2029.
Following extensive discussions regarding issues such as noise disturbances and airport transportation, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander sanctioned the proposal on Sunday evening. Gatwick airport’s privately-funded £2.2 billion project involves activating its second northern runway to increase operational capacity. This development follows the approval earlier this year of a third runway at Heathrow airport by the government.
The expansion plan at Gatwick is expected to generate £1 billion for the regional economy and create 14,000 job opportunities. With Gatwick having served approximately 43 million passengers last year, this expansion would nearly double its current capacity.
A government source highlighted the significance of the expansion, stating that it would facilitate growth by addressing capacity constraints impacting business, trade, and tourism. Emphasizing the need to adhere to climate change commitments and meet stringent environmental standards, the source mentioned the possibility of flights taking off from the new runway before the upcoming general election.
Currently functioning as a taxiway and a backup when the main runway is unavailable, the “Northern Runway” at Gatwick is envisioned to undergo changes for dual runway operations. The anticipation for a positive outcome was fueled by Chancellor Rachel Reeves’ indication of government support for the second runway during a speech on economic growth.
While supporters laud the expansion plans, critics have raised concerns about issues like noise pollution, air quality, increased traffic, and strain on local services. In response to speculations about the runway approval, Communities Against Gatwick Noise and Emissions expressed disapproval, citing discrepancies with airport policies and public opinion.
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