Plans to expand Gatwick North Terminal have prompted local conservation groups and anti expansion groups to demand a public enquiry.
BAA submitted a planning application to West Sussex Authority to extend the north terminal at Gatwick Airport to facilitate the expected target of 40 million passengers per year which is approximately 8 million more than currently passing through the terminal. The application also included a plan to build a second multi-story car park.
The application has sparked a controversial reaction from members of the Gatwick Area Conservation Group and the local parish council.
A statement was issued jointly by the groups:-
“We object to this application on the grounds that it is premature, and that the proposed development would mean more noise, more pollution, more traffic, more danger to the public, more pressure on scarce water resources, would have damaging economic consequences, and would be contrary to Government climate-change targets.”
It added: “Since the application is of national significance, and since all the adverse effects would have a much wider impact than on the residents of Crawley, we consider that there is a strong case for this application to be called in for decision by the Secretary of State after a public inquiry.”
Some residents have mixed feelings about the application some in support and many against any expansion. Concerns have been expressed by the MP Peter Ainsworth for East Surrey who wrote to the local authority to express his concerns on behalf of his constituents.
A BAA spokesman commented: “Gatwick’s planning application for North Terminal forms part of the airport’s Capital Investment Programme which will see £1 billion invested over five years. Our Capital Investment Programme has been agreed with the airlines and the Civil Aviation Authority as part of the regulatory process. It will enable the airport to handle up to 40 million passengers by 2018 and is in line with government policy, published in the 2003 White Paper, The Future of Air Transport.
“To remain successful the significant economic and social benefits of Gatwick Airport need to be balanced with the environmental impact of the airport. London Gatwick Airport remains committed to sustainable and balanced growth and recognises the affect the airport has on its neighbours.”
The Application is under review and only time will tell the outcome.
When using Gatwick airport it is easy and simple to use the Gatwick Parking facility available.