Representation by Hilary Turner-King
- Date submitted
- 19 November 2023
- Submitted by
- Members of the public/businesses
Nothing has changed since Gatwick was turned down in favour of Heathrow expansion by the Airport Commission in 2015. Gatwick sits on a single arterial road (M23) and a single railway line that can’t be expanded. Traffic in the area has increased year on year. A second runway would have a significant impact on the amount of extra traffic on the roads. The trains from London to Gatwick and vice versa already run at capacity. There are not enough seats at present. An increase in travellers arriving at Gatwick would only make this problem considerably worse. A 2nd runway would add over 1 million tonnes of extra carbon a year, plus other greenhouse gases, soot, and vapours. Gatwick continues to ignore this pollution in its consultation. Huge construction will be required for the new runway, taxiways, hotels, offices, roads, etc. All bring with them carbon footprint and nightmare construction traffic for residents. Aircraft noise is a major issue for the Gatwick expansion. People in West Sussex have chosen to live in this county because it is rural. They do not want to hear the permanent background noise of aircraft. For those living near the airport, this is already too much particularly in the summer months when air traffic increases. Increased noise pollution is a significant concern for those living in the area. We do not want it.