London City Airport expansion is crucial

YESTERDAY the Government showed it is ready to act in the best interests of the British economy by approving expansion at London City Airport [ July 27]. The airport serves the highest proportion of business travellers in the UK and the Government’s approval sends a strong message that London and the UK are open for business.

Development will create more than 2,000 new jobs, add aviation capacity in the South-East and generate an extra £750 million per year for the economy. The expansion plans represent a £344 million investment to build a taxiing lane to maximise runway capacity, new aircraft parking stands and a terminal extension, to welcome 6.5 million passengers a year by 2025. THE Mayor pledged to be a “green Mayor” in his manifesto and limit levels of air pollution. However, by allowing expansion at City airport to go ahead he is reneging on his promise.

Expansion will result in more flights and an increase in emissions, which could have a damaging impact on east London. Will the Mayor deliver on his promise to reduce pollution if he approves schemes such as this?