A decision regarding the developer for Heathrow’s third runway is anticipated by the end of November, as confirmed by the Transport Secretary, Heidi Alexander, during a parliamentary session. The two proposals under consideration are from Heathrow Airport and the Arora Group, led by hotel entrepreneur Surinder Arora.
Heathrow Airport has submitted a £49 billion plan that includes the construction of a third runway, a new road tunnel underneath the airport, and the widening of the M25 motorway between junctions 14 and 15. In contrast, the Arora Group’s bid proposes a shorter runway with no alterations to the M25, and has a lower estimated cost of £25 billion, though additional infrastructure requirements would still need to be addressed.
Alexander mentioned that while other applications had been received, only these two bids were being evaluated at this time. She stated that the aim is to gather further information on each proposal and arrive at a final decision to inform the ongoing review of the Airports National Policy Statement (ANPS) by the end of November. This statement, updated last in June 2018, serves as a guideline for determining the potential approval of a new runway at Heathrow.
The selected plan must fulfill four main criteria: it should enhance economic growth, adhere to air quality and noise regulations, and align with climate change laws, particularly net zero targets, with input from the independent Climate Change Committee. In January, Chancellor Rachel Reeves reaffirmed government support for the runway expansion, citing its potential benefits for economic growth and connectivity.
However, there is notable opposition to the plans from environmental groups, local residents, and various politicians, including Labour MP John McDonnell. He raised concerns about the negative impact on climate targets and the potential displacement of residents, questioning where they would live and how their community would be affected. Similar sentiments have been expressed by others, including London Mayor Sadiq Khan and Green Party MP Sian Berry, who highlighted issues related to noise and air pollution.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cg7n0p0rk2vo?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss