GTMC UPDATE

As I write, the third runway at Heathrow looks to have got over the line following the vote in the Commons.

The GTMC has long campaigned for investment in UK airport capacity, so we welcome the decision by MPS to green-light the project.

The challenge now is to ensure these votes and positive statements translate from debate into affirmative action. What the UK needs is well thought-out policies encompassing essentials.

The National Infrastructure Commission is devising a 30-year assessment of what’s needed, which could form the basis of a long-term strategy for the country. However, it has not been granted independence, meaning any plan will not be binding on future governments.

Heathrow’s expansion is likely to face hurdles in the shape of planning appeals and legal challenges along with ongoing confusion with Brexit and concerns about queues at border entry points, especially at airports.

But there is a lot to be positive about for Heathrow, including 15% of slots being assigned to domestic routes to help rebalance the UK economy and support businesses outside of London and the South East.