Gatwick Airport chief executive Stewart Wingate says the gateway is “disappointed” that the UK Government has given the nod to Heathrow Airport to build a new runway.

The Sussex airport was seeking permission for a second runway, and says it questions whether Heathrow will be able to deliver a third runway and is ready to step in and build one if the time comes.

Wingate explains: “We are disappointed as we do not believe this is the right answer for Britain. Gatwick has put forward a credible financeable and deliverable plan for expansion.

“It is a plan that can guarantee growth and guarantee certainty for Britain. We look forward to studying the full reasons behind the Government decision in detail.

“The challenges facing Heathrow have not changed. Our message today is that Gatwick stands ready to proceed when the time comes.”