Around two thirds of London councillors have come out in support of expanding Gatwick over Heathrow, according to a new poll.
The YouGov survey, published just weeks before the London mayoral election, showed that 62 per cent favour a second runway at Gatwick over 38 per cent at Heathrow.
The negative impact on the quality of life for local residents - noise and air pollution - was singled out as the most important issue in the expansion debate.
Stewart Wingate, Gatwick CEO said:“After decades of delay, Londoners recognise that Gatwick expansion can actually happen and that it is time to finally close the book on Heathrow’s plans. The UK cannot afford years of more delay so let’s get on and build a new runway for Britain at the only airport that can deliver it.
“Air quality is a crucial issue for London so it is no surprise to see continued strong support for Gatwick expansion and real concern around Heathrow’s impact.”
A government decision on airport expansion in the south east has been delayed until at least the end of the summer.
The online survey of 239 London councillors was undertaken between March 9 -27.