Gatwick's second runway could create 14,000 jobs and boost the economy by £1 billion
- Sir Keir Starmer aimed to boost economic growth in the UK but adjusted focus to economic stability once in power.
- London Gatwick's Northern Runway could be transformed into a second runway, enhancing airport capacity and stimulating economic growth.
- The government's approval of Gatwick's plan could generate 14,000 jobs and a £1 billion boost to the economy.
In the UK, Sir Keir Starmer expressed the intent to stimulate economic growth during the election campaign. Following his election, the ambition shifted towards stabilizing the economy under his government. To achieve growth, attention turned towards facilitating private sector engagement, with the Chancellor’s Mansion House speech outlining potential strategies for improvement. The urgency for development is partly due to Gatwick and other London airports reaching capacity, forecasting an increase in passenger demand by over 30 million by 2030. Gatwick’s Northern Runway, currently a backup, could be operational as a permanent runway under a £2.2 billion privately financed investment. This project is touted to be completed quickly, with minimal disruption to local communities, and no taxpayer money earmarked for the investment. The development aligns with the government’s agenda to foster growth in the UK, leveraging infrastructure improvements to bolster connectivity and foreign investment. The emphasis is on securing a competitive regulatory environment that appeals to airlines choosing bases for their operations. Urgent decisions on planning schemes, such as Gatwick's second runway, are crucial for achieving the economic growth that the government seeks, ensuring the UK maintains its status as a leader in global connectivity.