Representation by Philip Obrey
- Date submitted
- 16 October 2023
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
The proposals to build a second active runway and accompanying increase in air traffic movements are wholly unacceptable for people living under the flightpaths. I have lived here for many years and can remember when air traffic movements were much more infrequent - and importantly, when aircraft approached at a higher altitude. Gatwick Airport has proved to be a poor neighbour, seeking to put its own profitability above the interests and quality of life of local residents. Aircraft noise monitoring is a sham - there are frequent instances of approaches which are far to low and intrusive compared with years ago and frequent movements throughout the night. Nowadays, it is impossible to hold a conversation outside due to noise, and windows must be kept closed throughout the year (even in a heatwave) in order to sleep or listen to TV and radio. None of this will be important to Gatwick Airport, but it has a corrosive effect on health and the ability to live life unimpeded by constant repetitive noise, impacting severely on those most affected. That is at current levels; the consequent increase in aircraft movements should the development be permitted would be intolerable, placing more stress upon the NHS and other local infrastructure such as roads and rail, which currently operate at full capacity.