The Tourism Alliance has welcomed newly announced plans from Gatwick Airport for its second runway proposal, saying it is vital that aviation capacity be increased to support the UK economy.

Gatwick Airport today (24 July) revealed it would allocate £256m of funding for local jobs, housing and apprenticeships if a second runway receives the green light. The government is currently considering the best way to increase airport capacity in the south east, to accommodate the increasing number of visitors to the UK. It must decide whether to allow a new runway to be built at London Heathrow or London Gatwick, although it will also explore further the Mayor of London's suggestion of a brand new airport in the Thames Estuary.

“The Tourism Alliance is delighted that a range of detailed proposals are being developed for increasing the UK’s aviation capacity,” said Tourism Alliance policy director Kurt Janson.

“The UK tourism industry has long argued that increased capacity is essential in ensuring the industry remains a world leader and provides much needed employment and revenue for the UK economy.”

Gatwick airport estimates a second runway built there would give the UK a "£90bn boost" and create about 120,000 new jobs. Under the £256m pledge, £46m is earmarked for infrastructure around new homes, £5m to help insulate existing homes from noise, £10m for road improvements and a £3.75m plan to create 2,500 apprenticeships for local people. Around £131m has been set aside for compulsory purchases of houses, with offers expected to exceed market value by 25 per cent.