Gatwick Airport has announced its willingness to adopt stricter restrictions on aircraft noise and has presented what it describes as enhanced proposals following the government’s endorsement of a second runway.
Last month, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander indicated she was “minded” to approve Gatwick’s plans to put a second runway into use.
In response, the airport has outlined what it calls an “improved noise scheme for local residents” in its letter to the Secretary of State.
Gatwick has also agreed to a mandate requiring that 54% of passengers travel by public transport prior to activating operations on the Northern Runway, while emphasising the need for collaborative support.
The airport stated that achieving this target would rely on assistance from external parties, including the Department for Transport, to deliver the infrastructure and improvements required.
One proposed measure includes the full restoration of the Gatwick Express rail service.
Furthermore, Gatwick noted that if the 54% public transport threshold is not met, an alternative cap on road traffic should be implemented.
Should neither target be achieved, the opening of the second runway would be postponed until £350 million in road upgrades are completed, the airport said.
The airport’s submission to the Secretary of State also addresses other key topics, including increased commitments to sustainable building and reducing harmful emissions.
Stewart Wingate, CEO of London Gatwick, commented: “This project is a £2.2 billion investment, fully funded by our shareholders, and it is crucial that any planning conditions allow us to make optimal use of the Northern Runway.”
“We believe our revised proposals will enable us to expand sustainably and fulfil passenger needs, while responding to the Secretary of State’s concerns around noise and environmental impact.”
A final decision from the Secretary of State is anticipated by 27 October.
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