UK Government Delays Final Decision on Gatwick’s Second Runway Expansion

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander signals conditional support for Gatwick Airport’s £2.2bn expansion plan, pushing the final verdict to October 27.

Gatwick Airport’s £2.2bn expansion plan includes moving its emergency runway 12 meters north to enable dual-runway operations, increasing annual flight capacity by 100,000.
The project, which could boost passenger numbers from 45 million to 75 million annually, is expected to create 14,000 jobs and generate £1bn in yearly economic benefits.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander is 'minded to approve' the plan but has delayed the final decision until October 27, citing the need for adjustments on noise mitigation and public transport access.
The proposal has faced significant opposition from environmental groups and local campaigners, who argue it will worsen air pollution, noise, and climate emissions.
Heathrow Airport is also pursuing a third runway, with plans to submit its detailed application this summer, aiming for operation by 2035.