Gatwick Airport Expansion Decision Delayed to October

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander signals conditional approval for Gatwick's second runway, pending further consultations on noise and transport concerns.

The UK government has postponed the final decision on Gatwick Airport's second runway expansion to October 27, 2025, allowing time for additional consultations on noise and public transport provisions.
If approved, the £2.2 billion project would bring Gatwick's northern runway into full operational use, increasing passenger capacity by two-thirds and enabling up to 100,000 additional flights annually by 2030.
Local residents in Charlwood, Surrey, have voiced strong opposition, citing concerns over noise pollution, traffic congestion, environmental impacts, and strain on infrastructure.
The Planning Inspectorate initially recommended rejecting Gatwick's proposal but suggested an alternative plan with stricter operational controls, which the government is now considering.
Campaigners and local groups may seek judicial review if the project proceeds, raising environmental and legal challenges tied to noise levels and net-zero commitments.

The Times