Representation by Kate Lockey
- Date submitted
- 24 October 2023
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
I have several concerns regarding this development; Climate Change and Air Pollution - this expansion will increase the CO2 emissions substantially from what we see today, and from what we had prior to the closure of Gatwick Airport during the Covid 19 pandemic. This isn't just about the number of flights, but also the increase in traffic bringing passengers to the airport. I see no evidence of an improved rail service to eliminate cars, and the lack of support from the Government around the introduction of Electric Vehicles and sufficient Charging Stations will not cover any reduction in the near or middle future. Flood Risk - As part of the River Mole River Watch group, I monitor the river quality and observe the effects of the river flow during wet conditions. This river and its tributaries have flooded during extreme events. These are becoming more frequent and severe with the effects of Climate Change, and we regularly report high levels of sewage during heavy downpours. I don't see any information on the treatment of hazardous road and runway runoff into water courses, or the capacity to meet growing water demands, and the competence of struggling sewage treatment works to manage increased volumes of wastewater. The primary objective should be to ensure the river is able to to survive the Project and to thrive and achieve 'Good' ecological status in the future. The plans also overlook the opportunity to enhance residents' access and enjoyment of the local habitat with improved active travel options along river corridors and for better access for pedestrians and cyclists. Noise - Increase in aircraft WILL increase noise. There will be 35% more planes flying due to having two runways so the noise will be more consistent and without breaks. The noise envelope proposed is not consistent with government policy and CAA guidelines. They favour the airport and take no consideration of residents and the expanded noise zone. It needs to be revised substantially. Economic Case - Saying that it will increase jobs for the area is a misnomer. The jobs created are in the low income sector and with the rise of online check in, digital baggage handling and automated ticketing, these jobs are being lost. The people Gatwick are employing into their low paid jobs are for people who cannot afford to live in this area of the South East and they will have to drive or spend costs on travel, which increases the demand of the infrastructure and CO2 emissions. In addition to the above objections, Night Flights should be banned, and the impacts on travel are poorly represented. The increase in traffic will increase congestion on local roads and increase off-airport parking. There is no additional rail services planned and the London to Brighton route is already compromised. The growth at Gatwick will have a huge adverse environmental effect on our communities and countryside with the felling of many trees and the bulldozing of parkland. The only people to benefit will be Gatwick shareholders.