Airport commission backs a third Heathrow runway

The airport commission has backed a third Heathrow runway, as it could add £147bn in economic growth and create 70,000 jobs by 2050 and connects Britain to 40 new destinations. The chairman of the independent commission Sir Howard Davies, said that the three proposals they short listed and examined were all “credible” but there was a “clear unanimous” recommendation that Heathrow was the best option. Heathrow offers long-haul connectivity –flights to emerging markets which are critical to the future of the British economy. It also recommends an aviation noise levy to fund insulation for homes and schools and a legal commitment on air quality.

Sir Howard said that a second runway at although Gatwick was a “credible” option but was less able to provide connections to long-haul destinations and would create lower levels of economic growth.

Heathrow welcomed the Commission’s decision saying it would now work with government to “deliver expansion for all of Britain”.  John Holland-Kaye, Heathrow’s chief executive, said: “This debate has never been about a runway, it’s been about the future we want for Britain . Expanding Heathrow will keep Britain as one of the World’s greatest trading nations, right at the heart of the global economy”. A record 5.95 million passengers used Heathrow in March 2015, up 3,4 per cent on the same month last year.

Gatwick Chief executive Stewart Wingate said the airport was “still very much in the race”.

The Commission admits that expanding Heathrow would mean more people affected by noise compared to expanding Gatwick. Nearly 800 homes would have be demolished to build the new runway which would cost £17.6bn. The modifications to road and rail link could cost up to another £5bn.

Sir Richard Brandson fully supported Heathrow runway over Gatwick said “We need brave politicians, who bite the bullet and support new runway”.

In 2009, David Cameron pledged that there would be no new runway at Heathrow.