Gatwick Decision Given Extension

Posted by UK Property Forums on 4th March 2025 -

Heidi Alexander, the Secretary of State for Transport, has announced her support for an additional runway at Gatwick Airport.

In a statement dated 27 February 2025, she confirmed issuing a ‘minded to approve’ letter for the Gatwick Airport Northern Runway Development Consent Order (DCO) under the Planning Act 2008. This decision follows the examining authority’s report, which, for the first time, recommends an alternative DCO. This alternative includes a range of controls on the operation of the scheme, some of which were not considered during the examination.

As a result, Alexander is providing additional time to gather views from all parties on these provisions before making a final decision. The deadline for this decision has been extended to 27 October 2025, allowing for a nine-month extension. This extension is made without prejudice to the ultimate decision on whether to grant development consent for the application.

Stewart Wingate, the CEO of London Gatwick, expressed his support for the announcement, stating: “We welcome today’s announcement that the Secretary of State for Transport is minded to approve our Northern Runway plans and has outlined a clear pathway to full approval later in the year.”

He emphasised the importance of planning conditions that would enable a £2.2 billion investment in the project, which is expected to create 14,000 jobs and generate £1 billion annually in economic benefits. Wingate highlighted the project’s potential to enhance the UK’s global connectivity and economic growth, while also committing to responsible growth that minimises noise and environmental impacts.