Almost two thirds of local residents oppose a second runway at Gatwick, according to a new poll.
The three-month review of people living in Sussex, Surrey and Kent found that 61% would not support expansion of the airport with a new runway, although 36% voiced support for a second runway while 2.5% did not know.
The poll was conducted by anti-airport expansion body Communities Against Gatwick Noise and Emissions (Cagne).
It found the majority claiming that Gatwick was an inferior option over Heathrow for a new runway for the south-east of England because it is not in London and local infrastructure could not sustain expansion of the airport. Also low flying aircraft adversely impact rural areas.
Questioned about night flights, 37% would like to see a ban on night departures and 32% a ban on arrivals. A total of 36% claimed to be impacted by night noise.
Some local residents suggested expansion of Birmingham airport rather than Gatwick if the government reverses its decision on backing a third runway at Heathrow.
Birmingham would be a better option with its proposed fast rail travel links to London and northern England by HS2.
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