Heathrow expansion takes a step closer
A third runway at Heathrow is one step closer to take-off as Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander has launched the promised review of the Airports National Policy Statement (ANPS), which will provide the framework within which any future expansion will be considered.
The review of the ANPS will include four key tests that any proposed scheme for Heathrow expansion will have to meet, including on climate change, noise, air quality, and contributing to economic growth across the country.
This will ensure planning applications to build a third runway progress fast enough for a final planning decision to be made within this Parliament. The government will seek formal advice from the Climate Change Committee on any relevant amendments proposed to the ANPS to ensure consistency with net zero commitments.
The government has made clear that any expansion at Heathrow must be financed entirely by the private sector and bring no cost to taxpayers, whilst also meeting rigorous and effective cost controls to deliver this significant infrastructure project as quickly as possible.
Financing will come from promoters who submit formal expansion schemes and will include covering any related costs to improvements to transport to and from the airport.
Given the importance of Heathrow to trade and the economy, the government will also assess whether expansion at the airport should be designated as critical national priority infrastructure, meaning that it must meet enhanced security and resilience requirements.
“When we say this government is one that backs the builders, not blockers we mean it. Today is a critical building block which will advance plans for the delivery of a third runway at Heathrow, meaning people can start to experience the full benefits sooner,” Alexander said.
“As our only hub airport, Heathrow is critical to the UK’s economy, connecting millions of people every year and exporting British businesses across the globe. Enabling Heathrow expansion will drive economic growth and create jobs across the country, delivering on our Plan for Change.”
