Wandsworth Council holds firm on opposition to Heathrow third runway

In the co-signed letter, the Leader of Wandsworth Council argues the draft planning policy criteria at the centre of the current consultation do not set robust enough measures to assess whether a third runway can meet the Government's own tests.

'We're standing up for our residents'

Cllr Robert Morritt, Leader of Wandsworth Council, said: “Wandsworth Council remains firmly opposed to Heathrow expansion and the construction of a third runway.

“We're standing up for our residents - and calling on the Government to provide reassurance. Our borough already experiences the impact of aircraft noise which interferes with everyday life for those living, working or studying here.

"Residents rightly expect quieter skies and cleaner air, rather than facing an uncertain future of more noise and worse air quality with the potential of an increase in flights and noise overhead, and loss of respite.

"The Government's consultation highlights the real need for strong commitments over noise, air quality, climate obligations and public health - which we don't believe a third runway would or should pass.

“We are urging the Government to think again and pursue an approach that does not come at the expense of local communities, and recognises the recently-approved expansion elsewhere, including Gatwick.”

The Government consultation, which closes on Tuesday 1 September, is seeking to establish the national planning policy framework used to determine any future application to expand Heathrow Airport, including proposals for a third runway and associated infrastructure.

Wandsworth Council has a long-standing record of opposing Heathrow expansion and is a core member of the No 3rd Runway Coalition alongside neighbouring boroughs and community organisations.

The joint letter has been co-signed by the Leaders of the following councils:

• London Borough of Wandsworth
• London Borough of Richmond
• London Borough of Sutton
• London Borough of Southwark
• London Borough of Hillingdon
• Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames
• Royal Borough of Windsor and Maidenhead.

Concerns over further disruption to life in local communities

The council's official consultation response argues that the draft policy framework does not set strong enough measures to demonstrate that a third runway could meet the Government's own tests on noise, air quality, climate change and economic growth.

Concerns are also raised that residents could face increased aircraft noise, worsened air quality, greater pressure on transport networks and further disruption to life in local communities with more night flights and loss of respite.

Wandsworth Council is continuing to work with neighbouring boroughs, MPs and community groups to oppose the Heathrow expansion plans, calling on the Government to withdraw support for the expansion and work with local authorities and stakeholders on alternative solutions that better balance economic growth with environmental and community impacts.

Find out more

Read the co-signed letter to the Secretary of State for Transport

Find out more about the No 3rd Runway Coalition

This Heathrow planning policy consultation closes on 1 September - visit the Government's consultation website.