PRESS RELEASE
Embargoed until 00.01 23/3/18
HACAN, the campaign group which gives a voice to residents under the Heathrow flight paths, has welcomed the fact that the Transport Select Committee in its report on the National Policy Statement on Airports has recommended tougher conditions on noise and air quality should a third runway be given the go-ahead. These include a night flight ban of seven hours, longer than the six and a half hour break that was recommended by the Government.
In its report the Committee has endorsed the Government’s view that a third runway at Heathrow is the best option for expansion. But it has recommended that the Government take on-board a raft of new conditions. These include stricter conditions on noise and air quality and more clarity on new rail access to the airport.
HACAN Chair John Stewart said: “Although disappointed the Committee didn’t reject the third runway, we welcome the tougher environmental conditions which it has recommended. In particular we welcome its recommended seven hour night flight ban.”
Currently there is a ban on scheduled night flights from 11.30pm until 4.30am.
The Government will now be expected to respond to the Committee. A vote on the NPS is expected to take place in Parliament in the summer. If it is backed by Parliament, a third runway becomes Government policy and Heathrow would start to consult on the detailed plans for the runway.
ENDS
For more information: John Stewart on 0207 737 6641 or 07957385650