Heathrow’s third runway plans face scrutiny due to environmental and health concerns from local communities and officials
London: Heathrow has received approval for its third runway plans. This will add many more flights each year. However, there are doubts about how practical the project is.
The airport has wanted a third runway for a long time. Past plans included demolishing nearby villages like Harmondsworth, Sipson, and Harlington.
Feasibility studies looked at rerouting the M25 through a tunnel under the new runway. The project must also meet environmental targets. Heathrow welcomed the government’s support for the runway, expecting proposals by summer.
The government has limited legal challenges to just one appeal. Opponents, including the London Mayor and local MPs, argue the runway will raise serious environmental and health concerns.
Mayor Sadiq Khan stated he opposes the runway due to noise and air pollution. He will closely examine any new proposals from Heathrow and their impact on local residents.
Khan believes that adding many flights will harm the environment, despite advancements in aviation sustainability.
Stanwell Moor, a village near Heathrow, is used to the noise from planes. Some residents find the sound of landing planes less bothersome than taking off.
The Stanwell Moor Residents’ Association expressed concerns about more flights over their village. They plan to advocate for residents’ needs as the government speeds up planning approvals.
The government will assess expansion plans through the Airports National Policy Statement. They want to ensure the project is cost-effective and meets environmental goals.
Surrey County Council and Spelthorne Borough Council have been asked for comments. The Liberal Democrats warned that the runway could harm the UK’s climate goals and local health.
They noted that more flights could increase risks of heart disease and mental health issues.
Monica Harding, MP for Esher and Walton, emphasized the runway’s potential negative impact on climate and health. She called for urgent clarity on economic benefits and costs.
Some groups, like the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport UK, praised the announcement but stressed the need to prioritize environmental concerns.
Chairperson Paul Le Blond said any expansion must integrate public transport and modernize terminals while keeping environmental impacts within legal limits.
He added that government support is crucial to attract private investment for the project.
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