Legal Challenge Filed Against Gatwick’s Second Runway Plan

Campaigners Launch Judicial Review

Campaign group Communities Against Gatwick Noise Emissions, or CAGNE, has filed a legal challenge against Gatwick Airport’s runway expansion. The group argues the climate impact of the proposed runway was not properly assessed before government approval in September.

They have lodged a judicial review at the High Court, calling for the Transport Secretary’s consent to be overturned. CAGNE claims the government ignored key environmental risks when granting permission for the £2.2 billion expansion project.

Concerns Over Environmental Assessment

CAGNE says the environmental review failed to evaluate inbound flight emissions and the effects of non-carbon dioxide emissions. It also argues that noise pollution and wastewater demands were not adequately considered in the final decision.

Chairwoman Sally Pavey criticised the approval process, calling it unsustainable growth at any price to the planet. She urged the government to prioritise a sustainable future for residents and future generations.

CAGNE’s legal team at Leigh Day said a full environmental evaluation should have been central to the process.

Gatwick Defends Expansion Plans

The approved project will shift the airport’s emergency runway 12 metres north, allowing use for narrow-bodied aircraft departures. The change would enable up to 100,000 additional flights annually by the late 2030s.

Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander approved the privately funded expansion in September following an extensive review process. Gatwick Airport confirmed awareness of the judicial review but declined to comment while legal proceedings continue.

A spokesperson said the airport would participate in the case as an interested party during the High Court proceedings.