South East Liberal Democrats have called on Gatwick Airport to drop its controversial expansion plans and focus instead on reducing the pollution caused by flying.
The move came yesterday (Tuesday) on the day a public consultation closed and after a vote among the region's party members last week.
In September, Gatwick unveiled a £500 million plan for the routine use of its standby runway together with new buildings and other infrastructure to expand the airport’s overall capacity.
Recent legislation based on the UK's UN commitments states that nationwide emissions must fall by four-fifths (78%) by 2035, a target that now includes the aviation and shipping sectors.
Reigate-based Liberal Democrat campaigner Mark Johnston said:
“Gatwick’s plans are a travesty of environmental responsibility. Emissions must go down, not up. After all the good intentions pledged in Glasgow last month, we call on Gatwick’s owner to take heed and abandon its reckless plan.”
Councillor Alison Bennett, Liberal Democrat group leader in Mid Sussex added:
“The Liberal Democrats’ national policy is clear: we oppose any expansion of Gatwick. Whilst the Conservatives are struggling to do what is right to tackle the climate emergency and are reeling from the shortfalls of COP26, the Liberal Democrats are the Party who are able to take a clear line opposing any expansion at Gatwick.”
More Radio has approached Gatwick Airport for a comment.
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