COUNTY NEWS: Blueprints of Sussex airport’s proposals for second runway released

The first designs showing what a Sussex airport would look like if bosses are given the go-ahead to build a second runway have been released this week.
Farrells’ image of how Gatwick could look if it gets the go-ahead for second runwayFarrells’ image of how Gatwick could look if it gets the go-ahead for second runway
Farrells’ image of how Gatwick could look if it gets the go-ahead for second runway

Renowned architect Sir Terry Farrell, who is behind the blueprints, said he believed the extra runway would turn Gatwick Airport into a ‘world-class’ facility.

He was part of the design team for Incheon Airport in Seoul, South Korea, which was twice voted the best airport in the world by Skytrax, a consultancy firm which runs an airline and airport review and ranking website.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

The new images show an expanded Gatwick with improvements designed to eliminate queues, speed up passenger transit, and help Gatwick become the world’s most efficient two-runway airport.

Sir Terry Farrell said: “Our proposals for Gatwick are not just for another runway, but an entirely new world-class airport for London and the UK.

“Our vision for Gatwick is that it becomes the world’s most efficient two-runway airport – flexible and responsive to meet the changing needs of passengers and airlines. With an elegant and simple terminal layout, we have designed a direct and straightforward route from curbside to plane, creating a seamless passenger experience. Queues have literally been designed out and the new terminal will be simple and convenient to use with minimal changes of level. The airfield itself will also offer the shortest taxiing distances possible with the new apron sitting between, and in close-proximity to, both the existing and new runways.

“By providing a second runway at Gatwick, we will create a much more balanced system of infrastructure, and capitalise on the integrated connectivity we already have in London. It will positively affect the whole of the UK’s infrastructure, and build on the power of networks. A second runway would turbocharge economic growth in the South East and do for South London was the Olympics did for East London.”

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Gatwick chief executive officer, Stewart Wingate, said: “Britain desperately needs more airport capacity and after decades of delay, it is decision time. Gatwick’s plans offer a blueprint for another world-class airport for the UK and the only deliverable option to finally fix the capacity crunch.

“Our plans are simpler, cheaper, faster and quieter while also helping create a more competitive network of UK airports that every passenger can benefit from. In a lengthy, complex debate, Gatwick has remained the simple, obvious solution throughout - it is time we are given the green light to deliver the new runway the UK needs.”

Gatwick’s bosses say a second runway could be operational by 2025.

The Airports Commission due make its recommendation to central government soon about whether Gatwick or Heathrow should expand.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Don’t miss out on all the latest breaking news where you live.

Here are four ways you can be sure you’ll be amongst the first to know what’s going on.

1) Make our website your homepage

2) Like our Facebook page

3) Follow us on Twitter

4) Register with us by clicking on ‘sign in’ (top right corner). You can then receive our daily newsletter AND add your point of view to stories that you read here.

And do share with your family and friends - so they don’t miss out!

Always the first with your local news.

Be part of it.