Council reaffirms firm opposition to Heathrow expansion following latest Government developments

Richmond Council is restating clear and unwavering opposition to Heathrow Airport’s expansion plans – including the proposed third runway – and any measures that would increase flight numbers or worsen disruption for residents. 

The renewed position follows last night’s meeting of the Council’s Special Standing Committee on Heathrow, where councillors reviewed the latest developments in Heathrow’s refreshed proposals and the Government’s decision to restart the national policy process enabling expansion.

Council Leader Councillor Gareth Roberts said: “Richmond Council has been absolutely consistent: expanding Heathrow – whether through a third runway or backdoor increases in flight numbers – will have devastating consequences for our residents and our environment.

“The Government may have chosen to reboot Heathrow’s expansion agenda, but we will not stand by while the noise, pollution and congestion problems our communities already face are made even worse.”

Information presented to the Committee shows that Heathrow’s plans remain largely unchanged from earlier iterations, including the construction of a 3,500m third runway, major new terminal infrastructure, and the potential introduction of mixed mode operations – a change Richmond Council warns would remove vital periods of respite for thousands of residents under flight paths.

The Committee heard from a range of local campaign groups who continue to highlight the impacts of airport expansion will have on residents.  

The Government has also confirmed a full review of the Airports National Policy Statement, with consultation expected in summer 2026, paving the way for an accelerated approval process. Heathrow Airport plans to submit its Development Consent Order in 2027, potentially enabling a final decision as early as 2029.

Councillor Roberts continued: “We will continue to oppose this at every level – locally, regionally and nationally. We are already engaging robustly with Government, pressing Ministers to recognise the environmental realities they continue to ignore, and making clear that Heathrow expansion is incompatible with climate commitments, air quality obligations and basic fairness for our residents.”

Richmond Council pledged to intensify joint working with neighbouring boroughs, MPs and the No 3rd Runway Coalition, as well as continue its longstanding campaigning for reduced night flights and stronger protections for communities across west and southwest London.