Gatwick recognised for positive biodiversity impact

• Gatwick’s 75 hectares of greenspace inhabited by a thriving range of species
• The Wildlife Trusts’ Biodiversity Benchmark Award achieved for third year running
• Partnership work praised for positive impact 

Gatwick Airport has scooped two prestigious awards for its commitment to protecting and enhancing the natural biodiversity of the local greenspace surrounding the airport.

The airport has retained its Wildlife Trusts’ Biodiversity Benchmark Award (an independent verification of Gatwick’s programme) for the third year running and, for the first time, been awarded a CIRIA Big Biodiversity Award.

Gatwick’s greenspace includes 75 hectares of thriving woodlands, grasslands and wetlands, inhabited by hundreds of species of mammals, insects and bees, many of which are rare or protected, now flourishing as a result of Gatwick’s programme. 

Gatwick’s team works collaboratively with a wide range of organisations and external experts to ensure it follows best practice while working closely with conservation organisations and local experts, ably assisted by an active programme of volunteers and community groups.

In the past year the team has worked closely with the Gatwick Greenspace Partnership and the Sussex Wildlife Trust carrying out regular audits to track and monitor the population.

The award includes an on-site assessment by the Wildlife Trust who review management systems for Gatwick’s Biodiversity Action Plan areas, targets and carry out a review of progress. 

The award aims to raise awareness of the importance of protecting and enhancing biodiversity across the construction and infrastructure industry while recognising businesses whose enhancements increase opportunities for local biodiversity beyond normal business practice.