Business case for Heathrow expansion under development by government

2 May 2024

New Civil Engineer - Tom Pasby

01 May 2024

The government is working to support the creation of an updated business case for a third runway at Heathrow Airport.

Transport minister Huw Merriman made the comments about a business case during an adjournment debate in the House of Commons about the proposed Western Rail Link, which would create new connections around Heathrow Airport.

Tanmanjeet Singh Dhesi, MP for Slough, sponsored the debate.

In response to the debate led by Dhesi, which saw support from parties across the House, Merriman, in reference to the proposed Western Rail Link, said: “Reliable and efficient surface access connections are an important part of achieving the local economic benefits that can flow from airports.”

He said the government’s position “has always been that any government funding would be subject to agreement on a significant third-party financial contribution,” and implied that the new rail link would be more viable if the airport was busier following the completion of a third runway, which has not been built”.

He continued: “The government remains supportive of airport expansion where it can be delivered within our environmental obligations.

“However, we have always been clear that Heathrow expansion remains a private sector project that must meet strict criteria on air quality, noise and climate change, as well as being privately financed, affordable and delivered in the best interests of consumers.

“The government also recognise the economic benefit that airports can bring to their area. Increasingly, airports are becoming regional transport hubs that support multiple businesses, labour markets and population centres.”