Heathrow Airport’s Third Runway

The arguments in favour of a third runway at Heathrow are outweighed by the significant concerns it raises for our community.

Supporters claim the project could create 77,000 additional well-paid jobs, and we recognise that unemployment in our borough — currently 7% (around 11,600 people) — remains unacceptably high.

However, the costs to our area would be severe. This part of the borough already experiences the highest levels of air pollution, and the proposed expansion would make matters worse. The plans would also lead to the demolition of around 750 homes and businesses in Harmondsworth and Longford, destroying established communities.

Increasing annual flights from 480,000 to 756,000 and passenger numbers from 80 million to 140 million would place even greater pressure on our environment and quality of life.

With 98% of Heathrow Airport owned by overseas investors, we are concerned that the interests of local residents risk being overlooked in the pursuit of profit. Pressure should be applied for the airport operators to share their profit with local residents in compensation for the damage and disturbance they create.

For these reasons, HillingdonLiberal Democrats oppose the construction of a third runway.