The UK government has approved a £14 billion expansion of Heathrow Airport, adding a third runway and a new terminal. While the government claims the expansion will boost economic growth and create jobs, residents and environmental groups are voicing strong opposition over concerns about noise pollution, demolition of homes and businesses, and environmental damage.
The UK's busiest airport, Heathrow, is set for major expansion after the government granted approval for a third runway and a new terminal. Chancellor Rachel Reeves made the announcement, stating that the £14 billion project is crucial to meet the growing demand for air travel. Heathrow bosses have long argued that the airport's current capacity is insufficient, with the expansion expected to add 260,000 flights annually.
The new runway will be built above the existing north runway and stretch across the M25, impacting areas like Harmondsworth in Hillingdon. A portion of the M25 will be diverted into a tunnel to accommodate the runway. Harmondsworth is home to numerous residential properties, a primary school, pubs, and industrial areas, including British Airways corporate offices. The expansion has faced strong opposition from residents and environmental groups who raise concerns about demolition of homes and businesses, increased noise pollution, and environmental damage.Alethea Warrington, head of aviation at climate charity Possible, criticized the expansion, claiming it caters only to a small group of frequent flyers. Residents of Harmondsworth, like Justine Bayley, chair of Stop Heathrow Expansion, vowed to continue their fight against the project despite the government's approval. They argue that the expansion's benefits are outweighed by the negative impacts on local communities. Chancellor Reeves, however, maintains that the expansion will boost UK economic growth and create over 100,000 jobs. Heathrow Airport is one of the world's busiest, with planes taking off or landing every 45 seconds. It anticipates 84.2 million passengers this year, with the new runway set to significantly increase its capacity
Business Transportation Heathrow Airport Expansion Runway Terminal UK Government Economic Growth Environmental Impact Public Controversy
United Kingdom Latest News, United Kingdom Headlines
Similar News:You can also read news stories similar to this one that we have collected from other news sources.
Heathrow Airport 'Strip Search' Discrimination Claim DismissedA black project manager's claim of racial discrimination after a 'strip search' at Heathrow Airport has been dismissed by an employment judge.
Read more »
Labour braced for Cabinet split over plans for a third runway at Heathrow AirportWhile Rachel Reeves is yet to confirm that permission for the runway will be granted, she is expected to do so in a speech later this month.
Read more »
Labour braced for Cabinet split over plans for a third runway at Heathrow AirportWhile Rachel Reeves is yet to confirm that permission for the runway will be granted, she is expected to do so in a speech later this month.
Read more »
Michael Gove Backs Heathrow Airport Expansion, Calls for Fourth RunwayFormer UK Secretary of State Michael Gove advocates for expanding Heathrow Airport, stating his support for a fourth runway to boost economic growth and international competitiveness. He prioritizes the overall benefit of the expansion over individual concerns.
Read more »
Keir Starmer is in 'complete agreement' with Rachel Reeves over Heathrow Airport expansionThe Chancellor signalled she will use a major speech on the economy this week to give the green light to the expansion of Britain's biggest airport.
Read more »
Keir Starmer is in 'complete agreement' with Rachel Reeves over Heathrow Airport expansionThe Chancellor signalled she will use a major speech on the economy this week to give the green light to the expansion of Britain's biggest airport.
Read more »