Gatwick has been asked to set out its ambitions for future development in response to the Government's latest plan for air transport.

The Government wants the airport to set out its proposals for development over the next 30 years following the air transport White Paper in December.

The White Paper ruled out a second runway for the foreseeable future, as development at the airport is banned until 2019.

But land is still being put aside in case strict noise and pollution controls relating to a third runway at Heathrow cannot be met.

The Department for Transport yesterday issued guidance for the airport's plan for development. The airport is one of 30 required to draw up a plan outlining specific infrastructure proposals and addressing the impact of any developments on people and the environment.

It will also have to take into account traffic forecasts and any land or property needed.

Aviation minister Tony McNulty said: "The publication of airport master plans will be a significant step in implementing the White Paper.

"They will play an important role in informing the planning process and will help local people to understand the scale and impact of proposals for airport development.

"The guidance will give airport operators a clear indication of the range of issues which the Government would like them to address as part of this process."

The publication of a master plan is intended to give the airport the opportunity to respond to the Government's policies for the development of air transport over the next 30 years.

It will also help local and regional planning bodies when they are drawing up development plans and ensure the airport engages with local communities on its future development.

The airport has until the end of the year to produce an outline plan and until December 2005 to complete a fully worked-up master plan.

After publication, the plan is expected to be regularly updated to reflect any changes.

Tuesday July 13, 2004