Airports British Parliament votes for Heathrow Expansion

415 Members of Parliament have unequivocally decided to back the expansion of the biggest airport in the UK, London-Heathrow. The approval will result in tens of thousands of new jobs.

Furthermore, in the future the airport will experience strong growth and will therefore be able to expand its sustainability. After the Government approval, the airport is now said to prepare an application for development consent.

If everything works out, construction works will start in the beginning of year 2021. The vote secures a £14bn private investment for the UK and will be one of the largest private construction projects in Europe.

Heathrow CEO John Holland-Kaye said: “Parliament has ended 50 years of debate by deciding that Heathrow expansion will go ahead. This vote will see us deliver more jobs, create a lasting legacy of skills for future generations and guarantee expansion is delivered responsibly. We are grateful that MPs have made the right choice for Britain and today we start work to create the best-connected hub airport in the world.”

Over the next 12 months already, the airport is said to be signing contracts with various British businesses worth £150 million, creating 900 new jobs and 200 new apprenticeships. Businesses across the country will be involved in one of Europe´s largest infrastructure projects.

The expansion of the airport sees the construction of a third runway as well. Previously, the airport ensured, that local residents will receive compensation packages. Furthermore, a 6,5-hour flight ban during the night will be organized to protect the residents and to ensure that the airport meets air quality obligations.

In a statement, the airport named benefits of the expansion project: "With up to 40 new long-haul trading links, double the cargo capacity, more competition and choice for passengers and new domestic flights – an expanded Heathrow will make Britain the best-connected country in the world and sends the strongest signal to date that Britain is open for business. With a commitment to deliver an expanded Heathrow affordably with airport charges staying close to today’s levels – it is a huge prize for British business and Heathrow passengers."

In early June 2018, the British Government had agreed on the expansion plans, with the Members of Parliament pending to vote.

London Heathrow is the second busiest airport in the world. In 2017, it handled over 78 Million passengers with 475,000 movements. Heathrow is a district of London and is located 23 km away from the City´s centre.