FLYING IN THE FACE OF PROTEST

Luton, the UK's fifth-busiest airport, has become key to Labour's struggle for economic growth after being green-lit for expansion. But local residents and campaigners warn that the environmental fallout may well outweigh any economic uplift

- By Adam Toms

N WIGMORE, Bedfordshire, it is fairly common to see flight attendants in full uniform pulling suitcases on their way to work — serenaded by the hum of jet engines from Luton Airport. Residents, many of whom have lived there for decades, are used to the paradox of economic opportunity and eco drawbacks that come with living next door to the UK’s fifth-busiest airport.

But the problem won't be going away any time soon, as the Government fights a crusade for growth, with Luton as one of its key battlefields. Earlier this month, Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander approved a controversial planned expansion, despite the Planning Inspectorate’s recommendation that the scheme be rejected due to environmental concerns. Officials hope the project will double annual Luton passenger numbers to 32 million by 2043, creating thousands of new jobs in the process, after 1,100 jobs were lost due to the closure of the 120-year-old Vauxhall van plant last month.

It follows Rachel Reeves’ approval in January of a third Heathrow runway. But like many of the residents who fiercely oppose expansion plans at Britain’s busiest airport, Wigmore’s locals are also up in arms about their own proposed upgrade.

And that’s crystal clear upon my arrival to the area, soon after the Transport Secretary’s announcement. At first glance, aside from the incongruous airport complex dominating the horizon, Wigmore’s 1970s and 80s-era housing estates are unremarkable. But there are signs of discontent around, with some fence panels displaying notices meant for outsiders: “Please Do Not Park Here. Spaces Needed For Residents. Thank You.”

One nameless person passing by tells me holidaymakers who park their cars in the estate, sometimes for weeks on end, may be at risk of “militant” individuals who “egg” vehicle exteriors and damage windscreen wipers to signal their displeasure. The less combative tend to leave a note, they add.