Thomas Woldbye, chief executive of Heathrow Airport, has warned that failing to build a third runway would represent a "huge missed opportunity" for the UK. He told BBC Radio 4's Today programme that it would be "good to know" the government's stance on the project, following Prime Minister Andy Burnham's refusal to explicitly back expansion.
Woldbye indicated that if the airport's owners cannot invest in a third runway, the private money "will be invested somewhere else in the world," suggesting a decision is anticipated in the new year. He highlighted that the airport is currently "full" and needs to expand to continue its economic contribution.
The Department for Transport stated it is reviewing responses to a consultation and is "considering the appropriate next steps." A spokesperson added that the government supports airport expansion "across the country where this can contribute to growth and opportunity, while meeting the tests on the environment." They also noted that expanding Heathrow has the "potential to deliver around £40 billion in economic benefits across the country."
The project, estimated to cost £33bn, would involve demolishing homes, diverting rivers, and rerouting the M25 motorway. While a new runway was previously scheduled to open by 2035, Heathrow has since suggested a delay to 2039 due to planning and regulatory issues.