When it comes down to the choice of expansion and adding an additional runway, the preference of Londoners seems to be Gatwick. According to the independent poll by yougov.com, Gatwick is preferred over Heathrow mainly because of environmental concerns.
Heathrow has denied that despite four reports stating the runway decision has been opposed for pollution reasons is incorrect. They say they are simply working with the community to address concerns about the impact of a third runway, the costs, and how it may change and/or affect the landscape.
Most Londoners think Gatwick is a better option as it better balances out UK airports environmentally as well as economically. Heathrow is overall, in a better financial position, where Gatwick could use the boost in the local economy surrounding its airport. Along with less impact on the surrounding environment, to Londoners, it’s obvious the additional runway should go to Gatwick.
Despite all of the delays and mounting distrust, and unspoken belief in corruption, it is beginning to border on laughable, as they decision to add an additional runway continues to be talked about and delayed.
As stated before, we will see what the summer brings, and whether or not the reports about environment and other questions are answered adequately. At this point, most Londoners would just like them to get on with it.