The UK Government’s publication of the draft Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement has been welcomed by Heathrow Airport and a broad coalition of business groups.
Heathrow Airport (LHR) welcomed the publication of the draft Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement, describing it as a significant step towards delivering additional capacity at the UK’s largest hub airport.
The publication advances plans for airport expansion that supporters say will create jobs, increase trade opportunities and improve connectivity between the UK and global markets. Heathrow believes the project is essential if the country is to maximise its long-term economic potential and maintain its position as a leading international aviation hub.
Heathrow seen as key to global connectivity
Heathrow Chief Executive Thomas Woldbye said: “The publication of the draft Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement represents something Britain has often found difficult in recent years: progress.”
He added: “The UK cannot realise its full economic potential without an expanded Heathrow, and this is an important step towards delivering the capacity the country needs.”
According to Heathrow, the expansion project is privately funded by major international investors and has secured support from businesses, trade unions and communities throughout the country. The airport will now focus on progressing planning approvals and moving the project towards delivery.
Support for the project was reinforced by business organisations from across the UK. The Greater Manchester Chamber of Commerce said Heathrow’s expansion would benefit regional economies by strengthening links between local businesses and international markets.
A joint statement from several regional chambers of commerce, including organisations representing Scotland, London, Liverpool, the North East and the Black Country, also reaffirmed support for the plans. The chambers highlighted opportunities for exporters, suppliers and retailers across every nation and region of the UK.
Trade unions Community and GMB described Heathrow’s expansion as a generation-defining infrastructure project that could create tens of thousands of jobs and training opportunities. The unions also cited Heathrow’s commitments to domestic supply chains, living wages and the UK Steel Charter as important factors behind their support.
The UK Government also highlighted the economic benefits of expansion. Chancellor Rachel Reeves said: “Growth is this government’s top priority, and we are backing the builders to get Britain moving.”
She added: “An expanded Heathrow could support over 60,000 good local jobs and deliver up to £42 billion in economic benefits.”
Political leaders from across the UK echoed those views. Labour MP Sarah Champion said expansion would create opportunities for manufacturing and steel industries in Yorkshire, while Conservative MP John Cooper highlighted the importance of Heathrow’s global connections for Scottish exporters. Democratic Unionist Party MP Jim Shannon also welcomed the progress, citing the importance of Heathrow’s links for Northern Ireland.
ACI EUROPE Director General Olivier Jankovec said the Government’s decision represented a positive signal for future connectivity and competitiveness, arguing that stronger air connectivity supports investment, employment and economic growth.
With consultation on the draft policy statement now under way, supporters believe the focus should shift towards delivering Heathrow’s expansion plans and securing the long-term benefits they expect the project to generate across the UK.
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