The Association for Consultancy and Engineering (ACE) today welcomed the government’s approval of £2.2bn plans to bring Gatwick’s standby runway into full use.

ACE has called it a critical moment for UK infrastructure that will create around 14,000 jobs, generate £1bn annually and signal renewed commitment to delivering major projects at scale and pace. Gatwick has operated with two runways since 1979, but a long-standing planning agreement restricted the airport to one. 

Ben Brittain, Director of Public Affairs at ACE, said: “This decision is not just about concrete, steel and expanding operational capacity but about driving economic growth.

“Our members also know how infrastructure ambitions are too often frustrated by outdated planning regulation. By unlocking Gatwick’s second runway, the government has shown that these barriers can be overcome when there is political will. This project will not only boost jobs and connectivity, but it also signals a wider commitment to getting Britain building again.  

“Long-term investment in infrastructure is not an optional extra, but central to national prosperity. Unlocking Gatwick proves Britain can cut through barriers and deliver the infrastructure our economy needs.”