Gatwick Northern Runway Project cleared for take-off by High Court
Image courtesy VINCI Airports/ London Gatwick
Gatwick Airport is looking to move its Northern Runway, which is being used just for taxiing or as a back up and make it operational by 2030. This planned use of its second runway has been backed by government as long as it introduces measures to reduce noise. Campaigners had challenged the expansion plans citing climate impact assessments by government had not been conducted properly.
In response to the High Court's ruling on the Northern Runway legal challenge, a spokesperson for London Gatwick said: “We are pleased with today’s High Court ruling to uphold the Government’s careful decision to grant planning approval for our Northern Runway Project.
"Our exciting plans will deliver significant business, tourism and trade benefits for the UK, including 14,000 new jobs and a £1bn boost to the economy every year.
"This is a victory for common sense. We now look forward to turning our plans into reality and will announce further details in due course.”
Karen Dee, chief executive of AirportsUK, the trade body for UK airports, said: "We welcome the ruling upholding the government's decision on Gatwick's Northern Runway Project, which went through a robust and challenging process before gaining permission.
"This scheme will create thousands of jobs and generate significant economic growth, so the priority now must be in allowing the airport to get on and deliver the project.
"A sustainable, competitive and resilient aviation sector will ensure the UK remains a global leader, while allowing the whole country to enjoy the benefits that air travel brings."
Campaigners who lost two High Court legal challenge over the £2.2 billion expansion of Gatwick Airport in West Sussex may still appeal.
