UK PM Burnham refuses to back Heathrow's third runway project
Heathrow said the runway could be delayed 4 years and not open until 2039 as residents raised noise, safety and emissions concerns.
- On Sunday, British Prime Minister Andy Burnham declined to back plans for a third runway at Heathrow Airport, saying the decision should rest with local residents rather than the government.
- Burnham told the BBC that "it's a matter for London," emphasizing the need to hear local voices before proceeding; the previous government led by former Prime Minister Keir Starmer had announced support last year.
- Heathrow operates at 99% capacity, risking competitiveness against rivals like Paris' Charles de Gaulle and Frankfurt Airport, which maintain four runways each, while Amsterdam's Schiphol operates six.
- Plans for the third runway could face a four-year delay, meaning the project would not be operational until 2039, extending a debate that has divided politicians for two decades.
- Residents have long complained about noise pollution, safety risks over the densely populated city, and the impact of soaring carbon emissions, adding complexity to this long-running debate.
6 Articles
6 Articles
Heathrow expansion faces fresh hurdle as UK PM Burnham withholds third runway backing
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has voiced significant concerns regarding the proposed third runway at Heathrow Airport. He pointed out the necessity of addressing the long-standing worries of local residents. The expansion's timeline could stretch by four years, with operations potentially starting in 2039. Heathrow's struggle with capacity issues sharply contrasts with other major European airports, fueling an ongoing debate centered on co…
British Prime Minister Andy Burnham on Sunday did not support the construction of a third runway at Heathrow Airport, saying that the investment is primarily a matter for those living in the London area.
Evening Standard
Burnham refuses to say whether he backs third runway at Heathrow
He said: ‘Principally, it’s a matter for London and Londoners.’
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