The UK’s second-largest airport is Gatwick Airport, and the government of the UK has signaled to approve an expansion. On Thursday, the transport minister Heidi Alexander said that the government is “minded to approve” the Gatwick Airport expansion plan. Which is opposed by environmentalists. However, the final decision will be delayed until October. The government is actively looking into the most important issues such as public transport and the noise around the airport.
Key Details of the Gatwick Expansion Plan
Gatwick Airport is suggesting to use its emergency runway fully, which will increase the number of passengers in the 2030s. The idea is to move the backup runway 12 meters so that both the runways can be used at the same time safely. Such a move would enhance trade, tourism and create almost 14,000 jobs.
In a statement, Heidi Alexander noted that some conditions attached to the project need more work. Regulation on what proportion of passenger must use public transport to reach the airport and provision of noise insulation to homes affected by greater noise from the Gatwick Airport expansion.
Gatwick’s Reaction to the Delayed Decision
Gatwick Airport, which is 30 miles to the south of London and jointly owned by VINCI Airports and Global Infrastructure Partners, said that it supports the option to approve. But the airport raised worries over what conditions might come with the approval. The airport stressed that it needs clarity as to the conditions so that it can continue with its planned investment of £2.2 billion. Maximize the benefits of the Gatwick Airport expansion of the Northern Runway.
Environmental Opposition to the Expansion
Environmental Groups are going all out against the expansion, Despite government support. Friends of the Earth remarked on the government’s reckless stance, saying that green technology to reduce emissions won’t work. It added that the expansion of airports will worsen emissions and climate change effect. So officials must give up on any Gatwick Airport expansion plans.
While the government says green jet fuel makes expanding airports compatible with net zero, environmentalists aren’t convinced. The debate has gotten heated. Legal measures are likely to be instituted if the expansion is formally approved.
A Broader Push for Infrastructure Investment
The postponement of the Gatwick decision is due to a hesitation of the British government that is pushing for infrastructure investment to spur the economy. The Gatwick Airport expansion and local communities and environmentalists’ concerns will be addressed due to the deadline of Alexander in October.
At the same time, there is consideration for Luton Airport, which is located north of London. UK Government to Decide on Luton’s Expansion by April 3 – The two expansions show the same debate over growth and sustainability. (Credit: Chandler and the UK Department for Transport).
