The Government has launched a public consultation regarding the framework for future decisions relating to Heathrow’s third runway.
Marking a key milestone in the delivery of a final planning decision in 2029; the consultation aims to ensure that the runway meets key test criteria on noise, air quality, climate and economic growth.
Expansion at Heathrow is expected to attract international investment, boost Britain’s overall connectivity to new markets and deliver more than 40 billion GBP worth of benefits to the UK.
Once fully operational, up to 40% of growth benefits are expected to be seen in areas outside London and the South East, with passengers set to see benefits through direct improvements during travel, including fewer delays, better value fares and more choice.
Currently handling more flights than any other two-runway airport in the world, Heathrow’s expansion is seen as crucial to the site’s continued position as one of the most important transport hubs in the world.
If successful, the third runway will ensure that Heathrow continues to support hundreds of thousands of jobs across a range of sectors, with businesses, communities, and the wider aviation sector now invited to have their say on plans for the new development, including how the project can manage the four key areas of air quality, noise, climate change, and economic growth.
The consultation proposes that any scheme must include a clear strategy to both create jobs and realise the economic benefits of expansion, be compatible with the UK’s legally binding climate targets, not breach legal air quality limits, and ensure noise emissions do not worsen for local residents.
Planning proposals from prospective developers will be assessed against these tests, ensuring that expansion meets the needs of local people whilst serving the wider UK economy.
The consultation will strengthen the decision-making process and keep the Government on track to make a final planning decision by 2029.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said:We’re a government of builders, not blockers, taking the steps needed to unlock billions in investment, boost growth, and create thousands of local jobs.
Today’s consultation is a positive step towards realising the benefits of a third runway, by giving businesses, communities, and the public the chance to help shape this key project at one of the world’s most successful hub airports.
We are determined to move quickly and responsibly to set a framework for future expansion at Heathrow that will meet the needs of local people and the country on the key issues of noise, air quality, climate change and economic growth.
