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London mayor and TfL formally oppose Heathrow third runway plans

Sir Sadiq Khan argues the project relies on outdated data and threatens environmental goals, while Heathrow Airport defends it as a crucial driver of economic growth.

Updated Sep 3, 2026 · 07:18 UTC1 reports

The short version

  • London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan and Transport for London (TfL) submitted a joint consultation response opposing the draft policy framework for a third runway at Heathrow Airport.
  • City Hall and TfL argue the expansion will increase road congestion, strain public transit, and jeopardize climate targets, while Heathrow contends it will create over 100,000 jobs and support trade.
  • The Department for Transport is reviewing consultation responses before deciding on next steps, with a final parliamentary vote projected for 2029.

Key facts

  • London Mayor Sir Sadiq Khan and TfL formally opposed the draft Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement, arguing the proposal is based on outdated assumptions about climate laws and travel patterns.[BBC News]
  • TfL estimates the proposed expansion could add 22 million road trips each year across the M4 and M25 and require approximately £9bn in surface transport upgrades.[BBC News]
  • Heathrow Airport is designing a 2.1-mile northwest runway that involves realigning part of the M25, with a definitive parliamentary vote anticipated in 2029.[BBC News]
  • Heathrow Airport maintains the project is compatible with net-zero obligations, promotes £150bn in trade, and will include viable funding solutions for public transport and home noise insulation.[BBC News]
  • A coalition of local council leaders from London and neighboring counties wrote to Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander urging the government to scrap support for the runway.[BBC News]

What remains uncertain

  • It remains unconfirmed how the estimated £9bn in surface access and public transport upgrades would be funded if the expansion proceeds.[BBC News]
  • The government's final policy direction remains pending review by the Department for Transport ahead of the projected 2029 parliamentary vote.[BBC News]

Sources