Richmond Council has formally objected to the Government's draft policy framework for expanding Heathrow Airport, continuing its long-standing opposition to a third runway. In its consultation response, the council argues that "London needs a better Heathrow, not a bigger one," citing concerns over noise, air pollution, carbon emissions, transport pressure, and potential harm to public health.
Council's Objections to Government's Draft Framework
The draft Heathrow expansion national policy statement (HENPS), published in June, sets out four tests that any expansion proposal must meet: contributing to economic growth, meeting legal climate obligations, satisfying air quality requirements, and fulfilling noise commitments. Richmond's response, agreed at a special standing committee meeting on August 12, disputes the Government's assessment that expansion is vital for boosting airport capacity, trade, passenger choice, and growth.
According to a report by council officers, the council argues the framework is "weighted in favour of expansion" rather than providing a balanced assessment of whether it is needed, proportionate, or better than alternatives. The council also contends that the tests are too weakly defined and designed to favour expansion, and it challenges proposed mitigations such as noise insulation, compensation, and monitoring, calling for stronger measures and a greater focus on avoiding impacts altogether.
Government's Stated Benefits and Prime Minister's Concerns
The Government, under then-Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, claimed that expansion would attract international investment, boost Britain's connectivity to new markets, and deliver more than £40 billion in benefits to the UK. However, current Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who took office in July, has previously expressed concerns, stating last year that the plan diverts "infrastructure investment away from the North and traps it in London and the South East."
Heathrow Airport Limited, which owns the airport, is preparing proposals for a new 3,500-metre northwest runway, which would require moving the M25. A decision on the application, once submitted, is expected by 2029.
Next Steps and Potential Parliamentary Vote
Jamie Fisher, head of Richmond's policy and strategy, said the response states the "Government has not properly made the case for expansion at Heathrow." He added: "It also argues strongly that local communities, including Richmond, should not be exposed to the additional harm from expansion and that the questionable economic growth should not come at the expense of local residents."
The consultation closes on September 1. If the Government decides to proceed following the consultation and further scrutiny, a vote on the HENPS is expected in Parliament by the end of the year.
