Tue, 28 Jan 2025

Reeves expected to welcome Heathrow expansion plans

The chancellor is expected to make the announcement as part of a speech about growth on Wednesday.

* Labour's plan to expand Heathrow airport, including a potential third runway, will be announced by Chancellor Rachel Reeves on Wednesday.
* The move aims to boost economic growth and is seen as a key part of Labour's plans for expansion at other airports, including Gatwick and Luton.
* Environmental campaigners, including some within the Labour Party, have long opposed a third runway due to concerns over air pollution and noise.
* The government cannot prejudge the outcome of a formal planning application for a specific runway scheme, but will provide support in principle for expansion plans.
* No public money will be allocated for the project, with Heathrow itself expected to fund the costs.
* A tunnel may need to be built under the third runway as part of roadworks on the M25 motorway around London.
* The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) will also play a role in determining how much airlines can pass on the costs of early development work.
* Labour's decision is seen as likely to anger some members of the party and may face opposition from local authorities, including London Mayor Sadiq Khan.
* Other projects aimed at boosting growth include expansion plans between Oxford and Cambridge, redevelopment of Old Trafford stadium in Manchester, and review of the Green Book rules on infrastructure spending.
* The government's long-term plan is to create a "Silicon Valley of Europe" by developing a new region for business and innovation.
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