Gatwick says it will curb noise and traffic if expansion agreed

AIRPORT BOSSES SAYS NORTHERN RUNWAY SCHEME IS 'SHOVEL READY'

- By HELEN WILLIAM

GATWICK has said it is ready to accept tougher limits on aircraft noise and public transport needs in an effort to get the green light for its expansion plans.

It comes after Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander in February announced she is prepared to support expansion of Gatwick airport if the project is adjusted.

An improved noise insulation scheme for local residents was proposed by Gatwick in its response on Friday, along with accepting a call to have 54% of passengers using public transport prior to bringing the northern runway into operation.

Stewart Wingate, London Gatwick's chief executive, said: "This project represents a £2.2 billion investment, fully funded by our shareholders and it is essential that any planning conditions enable us to make full use of the northern runway."

Ms Alexander had said the Planning Inspectorate recommended she approves an alternative development consent order (DCO) application for the West Sussex airport's plan to bring its emergency runway into routine use.