Gatwick offer locals £1,000 second runway compensation

Householders affected by noise from a second runway at Gatwick could receive £1,000 a year in compensation.

The airport announced the move today (Monday March 10) as it ramps up its bid to convince the government it is the best option for increasing air capacity in the south east.

The payment would see the airport pledge £1,000 towards council tax for qualifying households if and when a second runway became operational.

It is believed about 4,100 homes could qualify.

Gatwick bosses claimed the move underlined its commitment to addressing environmental issues and acting as a responsible neighbour.

Stewart Wingate, CEO of Gatwick Airport, said: “Expansion at Gatwick would, without doubt, deliver many upsides for our local community in terms of jobs and investment.

“But we must also recognise the negative noise impacts on local people from more flights.”

The Airports Commission said last year that a new runway at Gatwick was one option it was currently considering to meet future demand for air travel.

Expanding Heathrow is another option.