Representation by Laura Muschamp
- Date submitted
- 7 November 2023
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
I am writing to express my strong opposition to the proposed expansion of Gatwick Airport. While recognising the economic benefits and convenience that an expanded airport may bring, it is crucial to consider the devastating impact it would have on the local area and the environment. This expansion would have significant negative consequences for our community, wildlife, and our collective commitment to environmental responsibility. The expansion of Gatwick Airport would result in increased noise pollution for all surrounding residents. With more flights and larger aircraft, the noise levels around the airport are likely to rise even further, negatively affecting the quality of life for thousands of people living in proximity. Studies have shown that noise pollution is not only an annoyance but causes various health issues -high blood pressure, heart disease, sleep disturbances, and stress. Is Gatwick airport going to fund treatment for all of the health issues they cause to their workers and the surrounding residents? Air pollution causes a variety of health issues including - myocardial infarction, stroke, heart failure, arrhythmia, lung cancer, asthma and sudden death onset. Public Health England estimates that long-term exposure to man-made air pollution (such as that created from an airport) has the annual equivalent of 28,000 to 36,000 deaths – keep in mind the population of Crawley is approximately 118,580 and those nearest would be the worst affected. It has been shown by The UK Health Forum and Imperial College London, in collaboration with and funded by Public Health England (PHE) that a simple 1 µg/m³ reduction in fine particulate air pollution could prevent around 50,900 cases of coronary heart disease, 16,500 strokes, 9,300 cases of asthma and 4,200 cases of lung cancer. Maybe people’s health should take precedence over company profits. Furthermore, the expansion of Gatwick Airport would lead to increased air traffic, contributing to higher levels of air pollution. Increased carbon emissions from aircraft and ground operations would worsen air quality and further exacerbate climate change. How on earth are we supposed to reach our target of net 0 emissions with increasing expansion in the worst offending industry. In addition, the proposed expansion threatens the unique ecosystems surrounding Gatwick, including designated Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty and Sites of Special Scientific Interest. These areas are home to diverse wildlife, and the expansion could disrupt their habitats, potentially leading to the extinction of several endangered species. The expansion would result in the destruction of hectares of valuable greenbelt land, leading to the loss of precious green spaces for recreational activities and nature conservation. It is also worth noting that an expanded airport may encourage more car travel to and from Gatwick, adding to congestion and further straining local infrastructure. This would place a heavy burden on our already overburdened road networks and public transportation systems. In light of the aforementioned issues, I urge you to reconsider the expansion plans for Gatwick Airport and seek alternative solutions that prioritise the well-being of the local community and the protection of the environment. We should focus on sustainable, eco-friendly transportation options and ensure that any expansion aligns with our environmental goals, such as reducing carbon emissions. I kindly request that you take these concerns into account and engage in a transparent dialogue with the affected communities and environmental organizations before making any final decisions regarding the expansion of Gatwick Airport. Together, we can work towards a better future that balances economic development with environmental responsibility.