The Green Party has declared it is prepared to take legal action to stop Gatwick Airport's controversial plan to bring its standby runway into regular use. The party's deputy leader, Zack Polanski, has condemned the project, warning it would have a "devastating" effect on the UK's climate targets.
In a significant escalation of the row, Mr Polanski accused the government of "ignoring its own climate laws" by not calling in the £120 million development for a full public inquiry. The proposal, which was approved by the local planning authority, would see Gatwick's existing northern runway, currently used as a taxiway and for emergencies, handle regular departures and arrivals of smaller aircraft.
A 'Flagrant Breach' of Climate Commitments
Mr Polanski argued that the expansion plans represent a "flagrant breach" of the UK's legal obligations under the Climate Change Act. He stated that the Greens are "actively exploring" the possibility of a judicial review to challenge the decision-making process.
"This isn't just about more planes and more noise for local residents, serious as those issues are," said Polanski. "This is about a fundamental failure to align our national infrastructure with the urgent need to cut carbon emissions. Approving this runway makes a mockery of our net-zero ambitions."
Gatwick's Defence and the Jobs Argument
Gatwick Airport has consistently defended the scheme, stating it is a cost-effective way to increase capacity and boost the local and national economy. The airport claims the project will create thousands of jobs and provide a much-needed post-Brexit boost to the UK's aviation connectivity.
However, critics point to the government's own advisory body, the Climate Change Committee (CCC), which has repeatedly warned that there should be no net expansion of UK airport capacity if the country is to meet its legally binding carbon targets. The Greens have positioned themselves as the primary political opposition to the project, claiming other parties have been too quiet on the issue.
What Happens Next?
The threat of a judicial review casts a shadow over the project's timeline. If the Green Party proceeds, a judge would assess the lawfulness of the decision not to call in the application. A successful challenge could force a public inquiry, significantly delaying or even stopping the project altogether.
This confrontation sets the stage for a major political and legal battle over the future of aviation in the UK, pitting economic growth arguments against pressing environmental goals.
