MPs call for delay to Gatwick expansion decision

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.<br/>