The Council's view on expanding Gatwick
This section outlines the Council's stance to the Government's proposal in 2003 to expand Gatwick from a one to a two or three runway airport.
Reigate and Banstead Council Leader Joan Spiers spoke of the Council's relief after it was revealed in December 2003 that the Borough will be spared the pressure of a second runway at Gatwick airport - at least for now.
This is a victory for the time being, but we cannot afford to be complacent." 
Stansted, Heathrow and Birmingham are to get extra runways under the UK's new 30-year plan for air travel.
Vigilant
However, the Council Leader pledged that that Council would remain vigilant to the threat of expansion of Gatwick in the future.
Cllr Spiers said: "We are relieved at the Government's decision not to overturn the legal agreement to build a further runway at Gatwick until at least 2019. They have made the right decision.
"Our reasons for opposing a second runway at Gatwick will be the same after 2019. We will remain vigilant and monitor the developments at Heathrow and will decide whether in due course to mount a further campaign.
Thanks to residents
"I would like to thank all those residents who joined our successful campaign. We will do our utmost to oppose any future development for the sake of generations to come."
"A second runway at Gatwick is unlikely because of the physical constraints.
Proposals were put forward in 1953, 1970 and 1993 but it has never happened. We are confident that Gatwick will remain a successful airport and with its existing runway there is scope for a further 60 per cent growth."
No to Redhill
The Government also decided against developing Redhill Aerodrome.
Referring to their decision, Cllr Spiers added: "We are relieved that the Government have decided not to pursue any development at Redhill.
"We hope the owners of Redhill Aerodrome will take note. Expansion of Redhill Aerodrome was not acceptable in 1995, it is not acceptable today and it will not be acceptable in the future.
"The issue has raised unnecessary local concerns and I hope that it has now been put to rest."
Useful links
- Tell me more about the Council's campaign and response to the Government's proposals to expand Gatwick airport in 2003
- Take me to the website of Gatwick Airport Consultative Committee (GATCOM), which advises the Airport's Managing Director about issues which concern local communities, travellers and other airport users
- I want to visit the website of local campaign groups Gatwick Area Conservation Campaign and Keep Redhill Airfield Green.
Reigate & Banstead Borough Council
Town Hall
Castlefield Road
Reigate
RH2 0SH
01737 276000
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