On 15 January 2009 the Government announced its approval for a third runway at Heathrow Airport.

A more modern Heathrow will promote tens of thousands of new jobs, the direct global connections on which our future economic recovery and prosperity depend, and punctuality will improve before more flights can be added.

Heathrow’s growth has been agreed with important environmental conditions. In November 2008 we proposed that noise and air quality standards be scrutinised by an independent assessor, appointed by Government. We are pleased that the Government has said these will be independently monitored and hope that this initiative will help build public confidence in Heathrow.

The aviation industry will also be a part of the European Union’s emissions trading scheme, which promotes further reductions in emissions. Furthermore, a less congested airport will mean fewer planes queuing to land at or depart from Heathrow with obvious benefits in terms of efficiency which will allow us to limit emissions.

We understand that the consequences of the decision will be difficult for some, particularly for those most closely affected in Sipson and Harmondsworth. But as we work through the planning process it is our intention to build strong links with our neighbours and communicate openly and regularly with local communities and other stakeholders. We will listen carefully to their views and will try as much as we can to reflect these in our plans.

We will also endeavour to create effective local partnerships that will best harness the many opportunities for employment and enterprise that will result from the responsible growth of Heathrow.

In the meantime, further information on the third runway project can be found on the following webpages. If you have any comments please write to me at talktocolinmatthews@baa.com.
 
Yours sincerely

Colin Matthews
Chief Executive, BAA