The government is considering two proposals to expand Heathrow – one from the airport and another from the Arora Group, led by hotel tycoon Surinder Arora.
The airport’s owners want to build a full-length 3,500m runway, which would involve diverting the M25, while Arora Group is seeking permission for a 2,800m runway, negating the need to move the motorway.
A decision on Heathrow’s third runway is due by the end of the month.
In July, Heathrow Airport presented their plan to government to build a third runway and accompanying infrastructure, including a new road tunnel under the airport, and widening the M25 motorway between junctions 14 and 15.
Arora Group’s bid included a proposal for a shorter runway, with no need to alter the M25, it also had a lower price tag of £25bn. However additional infrastructure would be needed.
Speaking at the Airlines 2025 conference in Westminster on Monday, Sean Doyle CEO of British Airways said: “If you can avoid moving the M25, you should avoid moving the M25.
“I think we should look at ways of potentially building a shorter runway.”
The applicants behind both expansion proposals have been asked by the government to provide further details of their plans, relating to the impact for investors, affected communities and businesses.
Either way my only concern at this time is for the residents of our village of Stanwell Moor and I will continue to fight for WPOZ Status for the community nearest to and most-blighted by Heathrow Airport operations – Until they agree our inclusion within the Wider Property Offer Zone.
Jim.