We work hard to ensure that airport work does not pollute our local rivers, or alter the risk of flooding in the area. Activities such as aircraft and vehicle washing, aircraft and airfield de-icing, construction and fire training, as well as oil or fuel spillages, need careful management to reduce the risk of pollution.

Water quality is subject to statutory controls, and the Environment Agency issues discharge consents to control the volume and quality of water that comes from the airport. Flood risk assessments are increasingly important to reduce any flood risk impact in new developments.

There are large areas of concrete at Gatwick where surface water collects. The airfield and runway are designed so that water can run off these areas quickly. A network of ditches, channels and balancing ponds collect the water, and we are able to hold and treat the water, then control the rate at which it is discharged into the local rivers.

As well as controlling the water going into the rivers, we also have a duty to make sure we comply with the requirements of trade discharge consents.

Our approach

Our overall objective is to meet Environment Agency discharge consents by managing the surface water control system and the airport activities that might have an impact on this.

Our approach is to:

• Understand, monitor and control the potential impacts on water quality from airport operations, including new airport developments
• Have pollution prevention procedures and treatment facilities that meet regulatory standards.
• Use robust risk identification and evaluation processes
• Have clear accountabilities, and ensure necessary resources and training are provided to staff
• Understand wider stakeholder concerns and develop strategies to address them.

Our performance 
Our plans