LETTER: New council to serve the north

In the light of this disturbing revelation by West Sussex County Council’s leader Louise Goldsmith, it is now time to consider a ‘parting of the ways’ between Chichester-based County Hall and Crawley Borough Council (which includes Gatwick) - much like Brighton and Hove City Council parted company from Lewes-based East Sussex County Council to become a Unitary Authority.

‘FULL airport expansion’ means Option 3 - ‘Independent Mixed Mode’ - the widest-spaced new runway which will have a devastating impact north

of Crawley. This is the preferred Option for GIP-Gatwick Airport Ltd, which will then maximise its profits.

It is definitely not the preferred

option for those living in North Crawley.

The business of local government - in this case West Sussex County Council (WSCC) in Chichester - is to govern on behalf of the people it represents.

WSCC is clearly not representing the people in North Crawley; it is ‘rolling over’ to the diktats of a global corporation whose only interest is to maximise profits.

If there is to be a new runway, there should be a new council - Crawley and Gatwick City Council.

RICHARD W. SYMONDS MCIPD

The Ifield Society, Lavington Close, Ifield