MPs call for delay to Gatwick expansion decision

A group of MPs argue that a "lack of proper" noise monitoring makes a decision on expansion impossible

A group of MPs have called on the government to delay the decision on expanding Gatwick Airport until current noise levels are monitored adequately at the site.

The airport submitted a development consent order in 2023 to bring its northern runway, normally a taxiway, into regular use for routine flights. A final decision is expected by 27 February.

Five MPs from Sussex, Surrey and Kent have asked transport secretary Heidi Alexander to delay that decision until the "true impact of noise" that the airport currently makes is understood.

A spokesperson for Gatwick said the airport has a "network of state-of-the-art noise monitors" which provide "comprehensive coverage".

Mike Martin and Tom Tugendhat, MPs for Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge respectively, have signed the letter, alongside Dorking and Horley's MP Chris Coghlan.

Mid Sussex MP Alison Bennett and Horsham's John Milne have also added their names.

They claim that an "informed decision" on the Northern Runway Project cannot be made until adequate monitoring is put in place.

"In most of our constituencies there is only one active noise monitor and in some there is no noise monitoring at all," the letter reads.

"The little monitoring which is taking place paints a worrying picture."

'Comprehensive coverage'

The airport has outlined a noise reduction scheme for local residents as part of expansion plans it claims would double capacity to 78 million passengers.

A spokesperson for Gatwick said: "The London Gatwick noise footprint has reduced by around 40% in the last 20 years.

"We have a network of state-of-the-art noise monitors located in a large area surrounding the airport to ensure comprehensive coverage."

Local communities, councils, and environment groups are involved with the noise monitoring process, the airport says.

A spokesperson for the Department for Transport said all expansion proposals must be "compatible with environmental commitments, and strict standards on air quality and noise pollution".

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