The Government has selected its proposal for Heathrow’s third runway – and the chosen plan involves moving part of the M25 at a cost of £1.5 billion.
The Department for Transport considered two plans, but said the one submitted by airport operator Heathrow Airport Limited (HAL) was ‘the most credible and deliverable option’ and had the ‘greatest likelihood’ of getting a decision on planning approval within this parliament.
The Heathrow plan includes moving the M25 130 metres west to make space for the new runway. A tunnel and bridges will be built so drivers can still use the M25 during construction.
The plan also involves a runway up to 3.5km long and the requirement for a new road tunnel under the airport.
A rival bid from Arora Group, which submitted plans for a shorter runway at a lower cost, without the need to alter the M25, was rejected.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said the proposal would still have ‘a considerable impact’ on the motorway and require the compulsory purchase of more homes in the area.
The planned third runway is expected to be fully privately financed at an estimated cost of £33bn, including the £1.5bn for moving the M25. There will also be an additional estimated £15bn to upgrade the existing airport.
The third runway is still subject to planning permission, and a decision is expected by 2029. The DfT said the selection of Heathrow’s scheme does not represent a final decision on a third runway or its design.
If the third runway does go ahead, Heathrow’s capacity will increase to 756,000 flights and 150m passengers a year.
