Key facts
- London Mayor Sadiq Khan has urged Andy Burnham to block the Heathrow Airport expansion.
- Khan cited climate change concerns and the net zero target as reasons for his opposition.
- Khan's office also questioned the economic viability of the expansion.
- A recent government analysis projected a much lower economic growth impact from the expansion than previously estimated.
- Heathrow has proposed measures to mitigate environmental impacts and create jobs.
- The Department for Transport will consider all consultation responses before deciding on next steps.
London Mayor Sadiq Khan has formally requested that Andy Burnham block the proposed expansion of Heathrow Airport, citing environmental concerns and outdated economic assessments. Khan, a long-standing opponent of a third runway, argued that the expansion is incompatible with the UK's net zero commitments and fails to account for current climate challenges such as extreme heatwaves and droughts.
Khan's deputy mayor for the environment, Mete Coban, further stated that there is no compelling financial case for the expansion, suggesting it would not benefit London's economy. This stance contrasts with previous government positions, including that of former Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, who had backed the expansion as a crucial infrastructure project for boosting productivity. Former Chancellor Rachel Reeves also previously supported the third runway as a sign of government commitment to development.
Recent government analysis has significantly downplayed the economic benefits, slashing the projected growth impact to just 0.05%, a fraction of the earlier 0.5% estimate. A government report also indicated potential net social costs of up to £62.5bn, though it acknowledged passenger benefits could reach £42.4bn through lower airfares and increased competition. Critics, however, argue that such economic models fail to capture the full benefits, including boosts to exports and dealmaking.
The UK government faces broader criticism regarding its net zero policies, with industrial energy prices being notably high compared to other developed nations. Delays in infrastructure projects are also cited by economists as a contributing factor to the UK's productivity issues.
Heathrow Airport has put forward several commitments to limit air pollution, noise, and carbon emissions, including the possibility of purchasing carbon credits to offset emissions. However, officials in the Mayor's office contend that this approach may disincentivize technological advancements and limit growth opportunities at other UK airports.
Andy Burnham's government is expected to consider the expansion policy draft in the coming months following a public consultation. Heathrow has highlighted the potential creation of 108,000 jobs, a point echoed by construction firms Mace and Costain, who wrote to ministers suggesting the project could address youth unemployment. A Department for Transport spokesperson confirmed that all consultation responses are being carefully considered and that expansion will only proceed if it aligns with legally binding climate obligations and strict environmental standards.