Representation by Gatwick Diamond Business (Gatwick Diamond Business)
- Date submitted
- 5 September 2023
- Submitted by
- Non-statutory organisations
Gatwick Diamond Business is a not-for-profit membership organisation with London Gatwick Airport at the heart of our region. We've been in existence for almost 70 years, supporting local businesses and people living and working in our community to thrive. London Gatwick is not just an airport; it's a pillar of the local economy, providing jobs, opportunities, and driving investment across a range of industries. Along with our members, (80% of respondents to a recent survey saying ‘yes’ in support of the airports Northern Runway project), we understand the important role the airport plays in ensuring we can all thrive. Gatwick Diamond Business (gdb) is a 70-year-old membership organisation that promotes and supports the economy of the Gatwick Diamond region. The Gatwick Diamond is home to over 45,000 businesses. Gatwick Diamond Business is a critical player in the economic development of the Gatwick Diamond region. We are mutually owned and run by - and for - our 350 members. We support our membership and the wider business community, make connections to ignite new opportunities and champion the needs and interests of gdb businesses across and beyond the Gatwick Diamond region. In October 2023, the gdb membership joined 51 business groups representing 55,000 UK businesses to support Gatwick Airport’s Northern Runway plans conditionally. This followed a poll of the gdb membership that revealed that 80% of our members supported Gatwick’s Northern Runway project plans. The South East, including Gatwick Diamond, continues to recover from the COVID-19 pandemic's ongoing economic challenges and capitalising on new international Asian and Pacific trade deals following BREXIT. Gatwick Airport’s plan for the Northern Runway represents the one solution in the region that addresses both nationally and regionally the challenges businesses have been presented with, and that will help them address these obstacles, thrive once again and create a prosperous future for all. For us, resilience (and the responsibility it entails) means also safeguarding the prosperity of a region that contributes £24 billion to the UK economy. Creating over 10,000 new jobs and an economic boost to our region of over £1 billion per year will create a dramatic economic, employment and career opportunity ripple effect. Large and small businesses and the communities they serve, not to mention the high-growth multinational corporations investing in the region, will all benefit from a new, resilient future. That’s what the Northern Runway Project at Gatwick could create. Crucially, economic growth and resilience are only the start. gdb also supports Gatwick Airport’s pledge to create even more social value for the region, providing education and training opportunities. We look to continue working with a thriving airport to ensure local businesses and people have a place in the airport's supply chain. gdb member’s support is conditional on Gatwick's commitment to improving local road infrastructure, delivering its nett Zero environmental undertakings and active participation in JetZero and other airline industry and UK/UN government climate targets, sustainability policies, noise, emission and airspace management. gdb's support is tied to Gatwick Airport strengthening our economy and actively contributing to a greener and more sustainable future across the business, tourism, travel and aviation sectors. gdb believes implementing the Northern Runway plans will catalyse further needed Infrastructure investment. Investment in infrastructure around Gatwick Airport would benefit passengers, staff, local businesses and local residents in several ways, including: • Improved transport links: Enhanced road and rail infrastructure and connections to the airport, making it easier and quicker for passengers and staff to travel to and from the airport, reducing congestion and improving journey times. • Enhanced airport facilities: Investments in airport facilities, such as terminal upgrades, additional security checkpoints, and expanded baggage handling areas, would lead to a more seamless and enjoyable travel experience for passengers. Staff would also benefit from improved working conditions and more efficient operations. • Economic growth: Infrastructure investments would stimulate economic growth in the surrounding area, creating new jobs and businesses. This would benefit passengers and staff, providing a broader range of services and amenities near the airport. • Environmental benefits: Investments in sustainable transport infrastructure, such as electric vehicle charging stations and improved cycling and walking routes, would encourage more environmentally friendly travel choices, reducing pollution and improving air quality. This would benefit passengers, staff, and the wider community. Overall, investment in infrastructure around Gatwick Airport would positively impact passengers, staff, and the surrounding community; it would bolster the wider Gatwick Diamond region and the broader UK economy. In conclusion, Gatwick Diamond Business (gdb) supports Gatwick Airport’s plans for the Northern Runway and the future opportunities it offers local businesses and local people.