The Chancellor has confirmed that the government will move at speed to review the Airports National Policy Statement (ANPS) and that the Government supports a third runway at Heathrow with proposals to be brought forward by the summer.
Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves, In her speech at Siemens in North Oxfordshire, said: “I have always been clear that a third runway at Heathrow would unlock further growth, boost investment, increase exports, and make the UK more open and more connected as part of our Plan for Change.
“So I can confirm today that this Government supports a third runway at Heathrow and is inviting proposals to be brought forward by the summer.”
Citing research published by Frontier Economics, Reeves stated that in addition to creating over 100,000 jobs in the local area and many more indirectly, 60% of the economic boost from a third runway would be felt by areas outside of London and the South East.
Speaking to BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, the chancellor was asked if the Mayor of London can stop the expansion from happening, she said: “No. There can be judicial reviews, but we are confident that this airport expansion will happen, that we will get the third runway built.”
Thomas Woldbye, Heathrow’s CEO in response to Chancellor Rachel Reeves's comments regarding expanding Heathrow to drive economic growth, said: “We welcome the Chancellor’s support for the aviation industry and recognition of the critical role we play for the economy and in delivering growth across the UK.
“Heathrow is the UK’s gateway to growth and prosperity. A third runway and the infrastructure that comes with it would unlock billions of pounds of private money to stimulate the UK supply chain during construction. Once built, it would create jobs and drive trade, tourism and inward investment to every part of the country.
“We will now work with the Government on the expected planning reform and support Ministers to deliver the changes which will set us on track to securing planning permission before the end of this Parliament.”
