Go for Heathrow

MPs have decisively backed plans for a new north-west runway at Heathrow airport.

The House of Commons voted in favour of the Airports National Policy Statement (NPS) by 415 votes to 119, allowing the construction of a third runway at Heathrow to go ahead. Transport Secretary Chris Grayling formally designated the Airports NPS, allowing a formal planning application to be submitted.

The decision means that building work could start in 2021, with the runway operational by 2026. Heathrow must now bring forward detailed proposals for planning consent, carrying out full consultation with the affected local communities on the scheme design and the associated compensation and mitigation packages.

Transport Secretary Chris Grayling said: “This marks a critical step towards ensuring future generations have the international connections we need, as well as strengthening the links between all parts of the UK and our global hub.

“I have always been clear that this issue goes beyond party politics, and this result demonstrates the clear desire to get on with delivering this vital scheme.

“There is still much to be done, including defending this decision against the potential legal challenges, but we are absolutely committed to working closely with local communities and ensuring Heathrow stick to their promises on addressing the local and environmental impacts of expansion.”

The vote was secured with the Transport Secretary making a five-point pledge to the country over the expansion:

• the new runway scheme will be privately funded and will be at no cost to taxpayers
• the expansion plans will be a massive economic boost to the country, with new international routes, more than 100,000 new jobs, doubled freight capacity and benefits of up to £74Bn to passengers and the wider economy
• expanding Heathrow will not only benefit the local area but the whole of the UK – committing to some 15% more slots for domestic routes, new rail links, and new global opportunities for regional business
• environmental protection will be built-in, taking into account existing climate change and air quality obligations, together with a new ban on scheduled night flights
• these pledges are to be legally enforceable, with punishment of unlimited fines or grounded planes if promises are broken

With Parliamentary backing, the new runway will be the first full-length runway constructed in the south-east since the Second World War. It is estimated that the expansion will provide an extra 16M long-haul seats by 2040, exponentially increasing the tourism revenue and business opportunities.

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