Gatwick: Why Is It so Hard to Move a Runway 12 Metres?
Gatwick Airport's plans to expand its runway by just 12 meters may seem straightforward, but the process is being bogged down by protests, politicking, and planning complexities that threaten to delay or even block the project. The government has given tentative backing for the £2.2bn scheme, but strong opposition from local residents, climate campaigners, and politicians means that it's unclear when - or if - the runway will be ready. Despite the public's concerns, the UK government seems determined to push ahead with the expansion.
- The complexity of planning permission in a country like the UK highlights the challenges faced by governments in balancing economic growth with environmental concerns and public opinion.
- Will Gatwick's experience become a model for how other countries navigate similar infrastructure projects in a democratic landscape where public opposition can be powerful?