UK Government announces support for third runway at London Heathrow Airport
UK's Chancellor of the Exchequer Rachel Reeves announced (29-Jan-2025) the government's support for a third runway at London Heathrow Airport. Ms Reeves confirmed the government will "move at speed" to review the Airports National Policy Statement, providing the basis for decision making to grant development consent for the runway in line with legal, environmental and climate obligations. The announcement follows research by Frontier Economics, which found that 60% of the economic boost from a third runway would be felt by areas outside of London and the South East. The government stated the expansion could create over 100,000 direct jobs and "boost a better-connected British economy by billions". Ms Reeves stated: "Now the case [for expansion] is stronger than ever because our reforms to the economy - like speeding up our planning system and our strengthened plans to modernise UK airspace - mean the delivery of this project is set up for success. 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". [more - original PR] [more - original PR - II] [more - original PR - III]
Background ✨
UK's Aviation Minister Baroness Sugg highlighted that Heathrow's third runway could deliver GBP74 billion in benefits, nearly double freight capacity, and add 16 million long haul seats by 20401. The UK Government's endorsement of the project received strong support from local communities and national organisations, with a focus on job creation and economic growth2 3. Heathrow Airport has been preparing for this expansion, engaging with stakeholders and working to ensure affordability and sustainability in its delivery4 5.