Heathrow, Gatwick and Birmingham airports ‘are ALL set to get PM’s approval for new runways’
Insiders hint ministers will approve a third runway at Heathrow immediately and allow Gatwick to start expanding in the next five years - followed by Birmingham in 10
THERESA May will give the green light to new runways at three major airports, it was claimed last night.
Insiders suggested ministers will on Tuesday approve a third runway at Heathrow immediately and allow Gatwick to start expanding in the next five years.
It was also claimed the PM will urge Birmingham airport to lodge proposals for an extra runway within ten years.
Sir Howard Davies published his independent report last year setting out recommendations to expand aviation capacity.
He said London must increase capacity by 2030 and a new runway at Heathrow was his preferred option.
He left the door open for expansion at Birmingham but said it would work only if the HS2 rail link was built.
Mrs May has been keen to promote the second city. The New Civil Engineer magazine yesterday reported Downing Street and the Department of Transport were “poised to give the go-ahead” to all three plans.
Aviation insiders last night said it was likely Manchester Airports Group would oppose expansion at Birmingham.