The plan will see the airport’s emergency runway moved 12 metres north, enabling it to operate alongside the main runway for the departures of narrow-body aircraft such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737. Once operational, the project is expected to add 100,000 flights per year, 14,000 new jobs, and as much as £1 billion in additional economic activity.
A milestone for UK aviation growth
Government sources described the approval as a “no-brainer” for economic growth, with officials suggesting the new runway could be operational by 2029. The decision follows revisions to Gatwick’s initial application, addressing concerns on noise mitigation and surface transport access. New targets will encourage more passengers to travel by public transport, although these “mode share” commitments are not expected to be legally binding
Local residents affected by additional noise are set to receive financial support, ranging from property improvements such as triple glazing to covering estate agent fees and stamp duty for those choosing to relocate.
Balancing growth and environmental obligations
While the project is expected to face challenges from environmental groups, officials believe the plans are legally robust. The government has stressed that the expansion must remain compatible with the UK’s legally binding climate commitments and carbon budget.
A government source noted: “The transport secretary has cleared Gatwick expansion for take-off. With capacity constraints holding back business, trade and tourism, this is a no-brainer for growth.”
Cross-party response
The opposition has also welcomed the move. Shadow transport secretary Richard Holden said: “If done with sensible mitigations, it will be a vital step towards driving economic growth, improving connectivity, and strengthening Britain’s position on the global stage. But let’s be clear, this decision should have been made months ago.”
With Heathrow’s expansion plans still uncertain, the Gatwick second runway project positions London’s second-largest airport to play a stronger role in meeting growing air travel demand, supporting the UK’s connectivity, tourism, and trade ambitions
