EAST Sussex County Council has given its backing to a second runway and new terminal building at Gatwick Airport.

At a meeting at County Hall today (Tuesday, June 3 2014), Cllr Rupert Simmons, East Sussex County Council lead member for economy, pledged the authority’s support for the third of three options for expansion upon which the airport is consulting.

Cllr Simmons said the plan, which would see a new runway 1,045m south of the existing runway and a new terminal built between the two, would support economic growth and job creation in East Sussex.

Speaking at his lead member meeting, Cllr Simmons said: “We had previously given our backing to the idea of a second runway and we believe this particular option is the best way forward.

“It will support our key priority of economic growth in East Sussex by providing better links for business to trade across the globe, as well as encouraging inward investment, securing new jobs and attracting more tourists.

“Our support is dependent on improvements to surrounding transport links and the necessary infrastructure needed for the airport expansion. This will directly benefit East Sussex residents and businesses.”

The option supported by the council would see both runways used for arrivals and departures, placed far enough apart to allow independent operation.

This would ensure the runways are used to their maximum potential for passenger use, while the scheme would also create the most jobs of the three schemes, with up to 17,500 new posts created by 2050-51.

Gatwick Airport was included in the Airports Commission’s shortlist of potential locations for the next runway in the UK, published in December 2013.

Responses received during the consultation period will be used to refine the plans for the second runway and will help Gatwick Airport Ltd decide which option to put forward for further consideration by the Airports Commission.