Residents across the South East have shared mixed reactions to a second runway at Gatwick Airport being backed by the government. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said she was "minded to approve" the expansion,

London-Gatwick Airport has welcomed the UK government’s response to its second runway application despite its decision to extend the process.

If the airport wins permission for its controversial expansion plan, construction would start almost immediately.

A second runway at Gatwick Airport has been backed by government, providing measures to reduce noise are put in place. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said she was "minded to approve" the expansion. Some MPs, local authorities and residents are strongly opposed.