While the consultation on Luton airport’s expansion plans is ongoing, a number of groups have made their opposition clear. High profile opponents include Bim Afolami, Conservative MP for Hitchin and Harpenden, who has launched a petition against the expansion. There is no mention of climate change in Afolami’s petition, which objects to the “detrimental impact on local transport networks and increase in air and noise pollution in Hitchin & Harpenden.”
Climate campaigners Greenwash.earth picked up on sustainability claims and named Luton Rising the ‘Greenwasher of the Month’ for February, saying that “flying can never be sustainable.”
More locally, the Luton branch of Extinction Rebellion has branded the plans “ludicrous” and is protesting against the expansion. “This goes against the council declaring a climate emergency and puts the people of Luton and the planet at risk from climate change.” The group have picketted consultation events, including a protestor greeting visitors to the Harpenden event dressed as the grim reaper.
Having demonstrated at events around the area, Extinction Rebellion Luton is inviting those opposed to airport expansion to join them at the consultation at Wigmore Church on the 26th of March. The group plans a carnivalesque series of interventions including a samba band, live music, costumes and dancing. All are welcome.
Zero Carbon Luton 