Campaigners opposing the planned expansion of London Luton Airport are seeking a judicial review.
The Luton and District Association for the Control of Aircraft Noise (LADACAN) says the consent order green lighting the expansion is unlawful.
The group has fired off a pre-action protocol letter to the secretary of state explaining its grievances.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander ignored the planning inspectors’ recommendations about the risk of environmental damage and other concerns.
Alexander granted the application last month.
LADACAN has appointed a law firm and intends to fight the decision.
“Everyone can see the worsening effects of climate change, and it’s obvious that the damage it causes comes with huge costs. This in turn harms the UK economy,” said Andrew Lambourne, LADACAN chair.
The expansion plans would involve a new terminal building and new taxiways.
It would enable passenger traffic to double to about 32 million within 20 years.
The council’s airport owner Luton Rising says the expansion would usher in ‘significant economic, employment and social benefits.’.
Luton handled 16.9 million air travelers last year.
