Campaigners protest over Airport plans

Campaigners gathered near Gatwick this morning to protest over plans to expand the airport.

The concerned residents are calling for an immediate halt to proposals for a second runway. Peter Barclay accused the aviation industry of greenwashing the public about their ambitious plans to become net zero.

The protest is one of nine across the country - including Southampton - to coincide with the COP26 Climate Summit.

Gatwick Airport is consulting on its plan to bring its emergency runway into routine use. A spokesperson said they were aware of the protest at the airport, and respect the right for people to peacefully protest.

And demonstrators also marched through Eastbourne - in support of the global day of action. 

Hundreds joined the march which went through the town - finishing at Wish Tower Slopes - where green campaigners and speakers called out for urgent action from local leaders in response to the climate crisis. 

In Southampton about fifty people occupied a small area at the airport entrance. There was no disruption for travellers.

The campaigners want to see alternative transport systems developed.