The UK government has granted development consent for Gatwick Airport’s Northern Runway project, clearing the way for dual-runway operations and a long-term capacity uplift to up to 80 million passengers a year alongside extensive airfield, terminal and surface-access works. The secretary of state signed the Development Consent Order (DCO) on 21 September 2025 (in force from 12 October 2025), following a six-month examination and further consultations earlier this year. The letter also records further consultations in 2025 before the final decision and confirms that all decision documents, including the made Order, have been published. The Order comes into force on 12 October 2025, after which Gatwick can proceed through detailed design, discharge of requirements and enabling works. All decision materials and the Examining Authority’s report are available via the National Infrastructure Planning portal.