Dismay as Gatwick Airport expansion application accepted by Planning Inspectorate

Second runway accepted for detailed examination despite lack of engagement with stakeholders.

Campaigners have expressed dismay after the Planning Inspectorate accepted Gatwick Airport’s application for a second runway for detailed consideration and examination.

CPRE Sussex has long opposed plans for a second runway at Gatwick because of the huge cost to the Sussex countryside and its residents. The charity has criticised a lack of public engagement ahead of plans being submitted.

Documents published last week revealed a consortium of 10 local councils had also raised serious concerns about how Gatwick Airport consulted with stakeholders before submitting its development consent application. Despite this, the Planning Inspectorate has accepted the application.

The Planning Inspectorate has now published submission documents and a public inquiry will be held before a recommendation is made to the Secretary of State for Transport Mark Harper.

CPRE Sussex will continue working in partnership with residents’ groups, including CAGNE, to oppose Gatwick Airport expansion.

Anyone interested in helping to stop the expansion bid can:

• Sign the CPRE Sussex petition which will be sent to Secretary of State for Transport Mark Harper
• Donate to the CAGNE fundraiser to help cover the legal costs of fighting Gatwick’s plans.

More details of how to register as an Interested Party for the inquiry will also be available on the Planning Inspectorate website shortly.

Read: Press release Gatwick Airport