Representation by Gabrielle Crisp
- Date submitted
- 16 November 2023
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
A second run way at Gatwick requires major alteration in the way this location has been used. This proposal is not merely allowing the status quo with better infrastructure, as has been implied . It allows for many more passengers to fly every year. Increasing flight capacity has knock on effects for everyone in Sussex and the wider area. More passengers will require onward travel infrastructure. The M23 and M25 are already significantly congested for much of the day. The railway line is frequently disrupted and, despite recent upgrades, is not a reliable service. There is no additional line capacity to serve Brighton and East and West coastal routes along the south coast. Workers for an expanded Gatwick will have to live somewhere and to get to work. However there is insufficient suitable affordable accommodation locally for any putative extra workforce. Many of these jobs will be seasonal, zero hours and insecure. These jobs will not pay enough to enable workers to live locally. Where is the plan for additional affordable homes, schools, medical services to serve the needs of additional staff? The main reason why this proposal should be rejected is that we are in a climate emergency. We should oppose on principal anything which increases the future use of fossil fuels. There is NO current technology which is compatible with net zero whilst maintaining our current profligate flying habit. All our efforts should go into reducing the need for individuals to fly for work or leisure. Any available money should go into more affordable and reliable international rail capacity to reduce demand for flying. Therefore, no increase in Gatwick capacity should be permitted. UK has chaired COP and has signed numerous declarations, treaties and laws about cutting carbon emissions. Gatwick expansion is unthinkable if we are to keep 1.5 alive