Business groups in Sussex are calling on the Government to put Gatwick at the top of the agenda when considering the future of airports in the South-East.

Bosses from across the county met last week to discuss the future of the airport at an event organised by Sussex Enterprise.

Ross McNally, head of development at Sussex Enterprise, said:

"The next few days are crucial if we are to get Gatwick back on the agenda for expansion.

"The consultation period for responding to the Government's report into the air transport industry comes to an end on November 30.

"Sussex Enterprise will be submitting the opinion of the Sussex business community."

The Government has left Gatwick out as an option for expansion but a judicial review brought by Medway District Council could overturn this decision.

Mr McNally said: "The effect of not having a second runway at Gatwick would have a major impact on the Sussex economy.

"Airlines and large employers could be forced to relocate nearer to other airports. Gatwick would cease to be the UK's second largest airport and Sussex would lose a share of the £1.6 billion the airport currently contributes to the local economy.

"The whole of Sussex would feel the repercussions.

"Areas of deprivation along the south coast rely heavily on Gatwick for employment opportunities and many Sussex businesses regularly use the airport to reach European and US markets."

Fiona Brownsell, of Brighton software company Youview, said:

"We started our business in Brighton to take advantage of the enormous amount of business support the new media industry receives here.

"This industry relies heavily on trading with European markets and Gatwick currently provides the convenience of getting to Europe quickly and easily.

"If the service Gatwick offers is reduced, I may have to consider relocating my business elsewhere in the UK."

The Crawley and District Industry Association (Cadia) said it was concerned one of the economic jewels of the region could lose its long-term lustre if it was excluded from the airport review.

Chairman David Cannon said:

"Our members say nothing should be ruled out at this stage and the long-term future of Gatwick should be considered as part of the review.

"Just sitting back and saying because of the legal agreement ruling out a second runway at Gatwick until 2019, the airport should not be included in the strategy, threatens the medium term at Gatwick, never mind the long-term."