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London City Airport expansion approved as Rayner overrules Labour-led Newham Council

August 20, 2024

London City Airport's passenger capacity is set to increase by 40% after Angela Rayner overrules Newham Council’s objections. The decision underscores Labour’s focus on economic growth, despite local opposition over noise concerns.

London City Airport has been granted approval to significantly increase its passenger capacity, following a decision by Angela Rayner, Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, and Transport Secretary Louise Haigh.

The ruling allows the airport to raise its annual passenger cap from 6.5 million to 9 million, representing a nearly 40% increase.

This decision came after the Labour-dominated Newham Council initially refused the airport’s expansion plans, citing concerns over increased aircraft noise and its potential impact on residents’ health and quality of life. Despite this, the Government decided to override the council’s objections, highlighting Labour’s commitment to prioritising economic growth, even when it means going against local communities and party officials.

In addition to lifting the capacity cap, the Government has permitted the airport to add three extra flights during the first half-hour of operations on weekdays. However, a partial weekend curfew will remain in place, with flights still required to cease by 12:30pm on Saturdays—a restriction the airport had hoped to extend to 6:30pm.

Alison FitzGerald, the newly appointed CEO of London City Airport, welcomed the decision to increase passenger numbers but expressed disappointment over the refusal to extend Saturday operating hours. She argued that this limitation would hinder the transition to cleaner, quieter aircraft that could benefit residents throughout the week.

The expansion approval also reflects a broader government stance on airport development, with recent indications of potential support for a renewed application for a third runway at Heathrow. While this move aligns with Labour’s focus on economic growth, it could spark further internal debate within the party, particularly given Ed Miliband’s history of environmental advocacy.

Campaign group HACAN, which opposes airport expansions in London, hailed the decision to maintain the Saturday curfew as a victory for local residents, ensuring a full 24 hours of relief from aircraft noise.

Located in London’s Docklands, London City Airport remains a key hub for Britain’s financial sector, offering proximity to the City and Canary Wharf, making it a critical asset for business travellers.