Heathrow expansion plans move forward following completion of public consultation

Following a public consultation with thousands of local people, the next phase of planning for the Heathrow expansion is set to commence.

Heathrow’s first consultation on its planning proposals for expansion saw thousands of residents visit 40 events held in local communities situated around the airport and across London, Surrey and the Thames Valley.

Over a 10 week period, Heathrow compiled a wide range of views on how to shape its expansion plans while demonstrating how it will fulfil the promises to local communities and meet strict environmental tests.

Communities have been urged to provide feedback on options to deliver a bigger airport and on a selection of principles for new airspace design.

Heathrow will now use this feedback to develop a preferred masterplan for expansion, a process that will involve continuous engagement and input from stakeholders including neighbouring communities, local authorities, airlines, statutory bodies and the newly established Heathrow Community Engagement Board.

Heathrow will consult on its preferred masterplan next year if the Airports National Policy Statement is approved by Parliament in the coming months.

This second consultation will also present the next phase of Heathrow’s airspace change consultation which will show geographic areas within which flight paths could be positioned.

Heathrow will look for local factors which should be taken into account when developing new flight paths within these areas which are known as ‘design envelopes’.

Emma Gilthorpe, Heathrow expansion director, said: “Moving to the next phase of planning brings us one step closer to helping secure the UK’s future as a prosperous, global trading nation.

“We remain committed to developing Heathrow in a sustainable and responsible way and will continue working with our many stakeholders, including local communities, to create an expanded airport that delivers for everyone.”