Heathrow expansion an 'outdated' risk, mayor says
Summary
London’s mayor, Sir Sadiq Khan, has formally opposed plans to build a third runway at Heathrow Airport. He argues the expansion would harm the environment, increase traffic, and not fit with current climate goals, while Heathrow Airport says the runway would boost jobs and the economy.Key Facts
- The mayor and Transport for London responded to the UK government’s plan to expand Heathrow with a third runway.
- Sir Sadiq Khan said the government is using old information that doesn’t consider current climate laws or travel habits.
- The expansion could add 60,000 more daily car trips, increasing traffic on major roads like the M4 and M25.
- Upgrades to London’s public transit lines (Elizabeth and Piccadilly) and new rail links would be needed, costing an estimated £9 billion with no funding yet agreed.
- More flights would lead to less quiet time for people living near Heathrow, cutting noise relief from half the day to a quarter.
- Heathrow Airport plans a 2.1-mile runway requiring changes to the M25 road and aims for a final decision by 2029 after a parliamentary vote.
- The airport says expansion will create over 100,000 jobs, boost British trade by £150 billion, and include a privately funded noise insulation plan for nearby homes.
- Some local councils support the mayor’s opposition, while the Back Heathrow campaign claims many local residents support the expansion for economic reasons.
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