The UK government has approved a £2.2 billion project to expand London Gatwick Airport by bringing its backup runway into full use.
This decision follows a “minded to approve” letter issued by Transport Minister Heidi Alexander in February. The expansion aims to accommodate millions of new passengers in the 2030s, boost trade and tourism, and create 14,000 jobs.
The project involves moving the backup runway by 12 meters to meet safety standards, allowing both runways to operate by the end of the decade. VINCI Airports, which owns a 50.01 per cent stake in Gatwick, will fully fund the investment. Despite potential legal challenges from local communities and environmental groups, the government supports the expansion, citing sustainable aviation fuel as a means to maintain net-zero targets.
Stewart Wingate, VINCI Airports’ managing director for the UK, stated: “After a lengthy and rigorous planning process, we welcome the Government’s approval of plans to bring our Northern Runway into routine use, ahead of the expected deadline. This is another important gateway in the planning process for this £2.2bn investment, which is fully funded by our shareholders and will unlock significant growth, tourism and trade benefits for London Gatwick and the UK and create thousands of jobs.”
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