Government Approves Second Runway at Gatwick Airport: A Landmark Decision for the Region

A Major Step Forward for Gatwick

 

The expansion plans, approved by Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, will see the Northern Runway repositioned by 12 metres to enable dual runway operations alongside the Main Runway. Once complete, the changes will allow the airport to handle up to 389,000 flights per year by the late 2030s — a significant increase from the current 280,000. Passenger capacity is also expected to rise, with forecasts of up to 80 million passengers annually.

 

This development is entirely privately funded and will also include enhancements to terminal infrastructure and ground transport links. The second runway will predominantly support short-haul flights, helping to free up the main runway for more long-haul services, which could improve international connectivity for the region and beyond.

 

Chancellor Rachel Reeves hailed the decision as a key component of the government’s plan to “get Britain building again”, stating that the project will “create thousands of jobs and generate billions in investment”. A government source described the move as a “no-brainer for growth”, with potential for flights from the new runway to begin as early as 2029.

 

A Balanced Approach to Growth

 

The project has not been without opposition. Concerns raised regarding traffic, noise, and environmental impacts have resulted in a number of important safeguards being agreed as part of the approval. Gatwick Airport has committed to enhanced noise controls, an expanded insulation scheme for nearby residents, and ambitious targets to ensure that at least 54% of passengers use public transport once the new runway is operational.

 

To support this, the airport has called for full reinstatement of the Gatwick Express rail service and broader collaboration with the Department for Transport and other partners to deliver the infrastructure improvements needed. Additional measures include offering triple glazing for affected residents and covering relocation costs for homeowners most impacted by the changes.

 

Environmental and campaign groups have also voiced strong opposition, citing concerns over air pollution, emissions, and noise. However, proponents argue that the expansion can proceed in a way that aligns with the UK’s legally binding climate commitments, and note that technological improvements in aircraft efficiency and airport operations are evolving rapidly.

 

A Transformational Moment for the Region

 

At DHA Planning, we view the approval of Gatwick’s expansion as a transformative opportunity for the South East and the Gatwick Diamond in particular. As we recently shared on LinkedIn, we are already seeing increased development interest and renewed confidence in the region.

 

“This is a transformative moment for Gatwick and its surrounding business community, opening doors to new opportunities and economic vitality,” says Jonathan Buckwell, Director at DHA Planning. “It’s an incredibly exciting time to be based here.”

 

We look forward to continuing our work with local partners and stakeholders — including the Gatwick Diamond Business Group — to help bring forward high-quality development that supports sustainable economic growth. The runway approval is more than just an infrastructure milestone; it’s a catalyst for long-term regeneration and strategic growth across the region.

 

In the meantime, if you have any queries, or projects in Sussex, please do not hesitate to contact DHA Gatwick's Jonathan Buckwell or Mark Bewsey.