Heathrow can be developed ‘responsibly’ – BAA

Heathrow can be developed in a “responsible way” and in the best social and economic interests of the UK as a whole, according to the airport’s owner BAA.

The company’s 34-page submission to the Government’s consultation into developing a third runway at the London hub points out that third runway will only go ahead if there is no more noise than in 2002, if air quality is better than today, and if there are improvements to public transport. 

By the time a third runway is operational aviation emissions are due to be capped across Europe.  If airlines want to fly more then they will have to pay for other industries to reduce their emissions. 

“This means that the overall amount of carbon dioxide emissions in the atmosphere would not increase as a result of a third runway at Heathrow,” BAA claims.   

The case for growth at Heathrow is strong and the Government’s consultation document shows that it does not have to be at the expense of the environment, according to the company. 

“The decisions the UK takes now will affect its competitive position for years to come. But doing nothing is emphatically not an option. Heathrow can either grow or London and the UK will be worse off.”

BAA business strategy director Mike Forster said: “The UK will draw obvious benefits from new runway capacity at Heathrow, in terms of jobs and international competitiveness. 

“However, it is important that we address important environmental concerns and our submission to this consultation clearly demonstrates how we can grow Heathrow, with due regard for local communities and the environment and in a responsible way.

“We now urge the Government to carefully consider all the responses to the consultation – and the evidence presented – and make a clear and positive decision which reflects Heathrow’s unique role as the social and economic engine-room of the UK.

“In an increasingly globalised and competitive economy, in which companies can move operations more freely than ever, Heathrow – and its ability to compete with European and Middle Eastern hubs – is increasingly important.

“There is no doubt that the UK is falling behind its economic rivals, because Amsterdam, Frankfurt, Madrid, Paris are planning for the future, building new runways and taking jobs and business from the UK.

“Today, Heathrow is full and it is time for the UK to signal its intention to compete, for jobs and for future prosperity.”

by Phil Davies