New Consultation Starts For Heathrow Expansion

On Thursday 18th June 2026, when all news was diverted to the election of Andy Burnham, the government quietly sneaked in its public consultation for what it claimed is Europe's biggest construction project ever - the draft Heathrow Expansion National Policy Statement (HENPS) consultation.

Protesters complained the short 10 week public consultation for Heathrow's future planning decisions -that runs until 1 September 2026 - is taking place while the public and MP's will be away on their summer holiday!

If Andy Burnham becomes Prime Minister, what can we expect?

  • He has previously voiced clear opposition to Heathrow expansion.

  • He has stated that a third runway would divert infrastructure investment (£33 billion) away from the north and concentrate resources in London.

If, unlike Theresa May, he doesn't flip-flop and change his viewpoint when in power, the risk to Heathrow expansion will undoubtedly increase.

All planes can now fly Point-To-Point eg. from Manchester Airport to China or USA... there is no need whatsoever for people or cargo to have to first fly from the North down to Heathrow, before flying to Europe, Asia, America, etc, and visa versa. Heathrow’s ancient model of a hub airport is obsolete!

Our MP @JohnMcDonnellMP tweeted: “The government has published its consultation document on the expansion of Heathrow Airport with a 3rd runway. The consultation ends on 1st September. I will be convening meetings for local residents over the next fortnight to discuss the issues involved and how we can respond.”

Cllr Steve Tuckwell - Leader of Hillingdon Council remains firmly opposed to the 3rdRunway and he issued the following statement :-

Cllr Steve Tuckwell - Leader of Hillingdon Council statement

Heathrow Airport falls within Hillingdon Borough

Hayes Town News summarised Heathrow expansion plan succinctly, plus of course, the back pages of the national press, including the FT who have woken up to the fact that expansion would boost the UK economy by barely a tenth of Rachel Reeve/Heathrow’s forecast projection!

We want a better Heathrow, NOT a bigger Heathrow!

SHE