Richmond upon Thames has once again raised concerns over Heathrow Airport's long-discussed third runway, warning that local residents would bear the brunt of expansion plans.

Last night, Richmond Council Leader, Councillor Gareth Roberts, joined campaigners from the No 3rd Runway Coalition in Parliament to make the case directly to MPs and Lords across party lines.

He said: "London deserves a better Heathrow, not a bigger one."

Heathrow, the UK's busiest airport, serves more than 80 million passengers a year across its four terminals and two runways.

The airport has been seeking permission to build a third runway for nearly two decades.

Earlier this year, Chancellor Rachel Reeves announced the government's backing for the expansion, citing potential economic growth and insisting ministers "cannot duck the decision any longer."

Heathrow says the new runway could allow up to 260,000 extra flights annually.

Sir Keir Starmer has previously said that airport growth is key to boosting the economy (credit: Cesar Medina).

Cllr Roberts challenged these claims, saying: "The government's so-called growth agenda, announced nine months ago, still lacks credible detail on how these plans will benefit residents or protect the environment.

"People in Richmond and neighbouring boroughs already live with near-constant noise, air pollution, and disruption. A third runway will only make this worse."

He added: "There are many ways to support jobs and connectivity without piling more flights over London. Freight, domestic flights, and smarter use of existing capacity all need serious consideration. Until the government sets out full plans, we cannot be reassured that these promises are deliverable.

"To claim aviation is one of the few paths to growth is remarkable, given the huge environmental and social costs."

Richmond Council has a long history of opposing Heathrow expansion. In 2020, it convened a cross-party coalition of councils, MPs, and community groups that scrutinised previous proposals and successfully helped overturn government approval of a third runway.

"Despite fresh plans emerging – and hundreds of millions of pounds of taxpayer money already invested – there is still no clear road ahead," said Cllr Roberts.

"Our borough, and southwest London more widely, deserves certainty, safety, and a say in its future. Until ministers provide that, we remain vigilant and ready to act."

READ MORE: Flights forced to abort landings at Heathrow due to strong winds.

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