THE High Court has given the go-ahead for campaigners to take their legal challenge against London City Airport expansion before a judge. A Judicial Review is to look into the legality of the decision to approve the expansion

By Mike Brooke

THE High Court has given the go-ahead for campaigners to take their legal challenge against London City Airport expansion before a judge.

A Judicial Review is to look into the legality of the local authority’s decision to approve the expansion of the airport in East London.

The court granted permission yesterday for Fight the Flights’ pressure group to challenge all aspects of Newham Council’s actions.

“This is a step towards justice for the residents of East London,” said campaign chair Anne-Marie Griffin.

“Many people were simply not consulted about the airport expansion. Those who have to put up with increased noise and air pollution as a result of the council’s decision to carry on expanding City Airport will welcome this.”

The Fight the Flights’ group, from communities in the airport flight path across East London from Limehouse and the Isle of Dogs as far out as Barking, claim Newham Council failed to consider the Government’s policy on climate change and aviation.

It also maintains that Newham failed to consult neighbouring local authorities such as Tower Hamlets and Barking or the residents who would be affected by the expansion. The Judicial Review is being heard later this year.