Key facts
- Heathrow Airport has delayed its third runway project, now aiming for an operational runway by 2039.
- Mayor of Greater Manchester Andy Burnham described the Heathrow expansion as "contested" and a matter for London.
- The project is estimated to create 100,000 jobs and boost the UK economy.
- Environmental groups and local London coalitions oppose the expansion due to noise, pollution, and demolition of homes.
- Trade unions Unite and GMB support the expansion, highlighting job creation and economic benefits.
Plans for a third runway at Heathrow Airport have been delayed by up to four years, with the airport now not expecting the project to be operational until 2039. The original deadline was 2035, but Heathrow hopes to secure planning permission by 2029.
Andy Burnham, Mayor of Greater Manchester, declined to state his support for the expansion, calling it a "contested" issue and primarily a matter for London and its MPs. He indicated that he would await the results of a public consultation before forming a decision, having previously criticized the expansion.
The £33 billion project aims to increase Heathrow's annual flight capacity from 480,000 to 756,000 and is estimated to create 100,000 jobs. However, it involves demolishing hundreds of homes and rerouting parts of the M25 motorway.
Environmental campaigners, such as Tony Bosworth of Friends of the Earth, have questioned the economic viability of the expansion given the delay and highlighted the significant social and environmental costs. Robert Barnstone of the No 3rd Runway Coalition argued that the decision should be made in London, citing concerns over noise pollution and air quality for residents.
Conversely, trade union leaders from Unite and GMB have voiced strong support for the third runway. Sharon Graham, Unite's general secretary, emphasized its importance for securing unionized jobs and a market for UK steel. Warren Kenny, GMB London regional secretary, urged the government to address planning issues promptly, stating that delays are costing jobs and wages.