A decision on whether to build a third runway at Heathrow Airport has been suspended till next year, the government has confirmed. Transport Secretary Patrick McLoughhlin said further research on the environmental impact was needed.
The Airports Commission, led by Sir Howard Davies, recommended a third runway at Heathrow in report in July but he said that the new runway should come with severe restrictions to reduce the environmental and noise effects, and did not completely rule out another runway at Gatwick or doubling an existing runway at Heathrow.
Business groups reacted with dismay at the news, with one group describing it as “gutless”, but opponents welcomed the extra focus on the environment.
“The case for aviation expansion is clear – but it’s vitally important we get the decision right so that it will benefit generations to come,” said Mr McLoughlin.
“We will undertake more work on environmental impacts, including air quality, noise and carbon.”
