High Court dismisses challenges over Gatwick expansion

The High Court has dismissed challenges over the proposed expansion of Gatwick Airport.

The challenges, put forward by local resident Peter Barclay and Communities Against Gatwick Noise Emissions (Cagne), were dismissed by Mr Justice Mould this morning (June 23).

The parties had opposed the decision by the Secretary of State for Transport, Heidi Alexander MP, to give consent to a two-runway operation at Gatwick.

The development would involve altering the existing northern runway and lifting restrictions on its use.

Responding to the judgment, Cagne said its legal team would consider an appeal.

The group added: “Communities across Sussex, Surrey and Kent helped fund this legal action because they have grave and legitimate concerns about the proposed expansion: the lack of airport funding for essential infrastructure, the absence of proper investment in sewerage treatment, the increased noise burden on local residents, worsening air quality, and the significant rise in CO2 and other harmful emissions.”

A Gatwick spokesperson 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.”