The government has now confirmed that they have approved a third runway at Heathrow, which will in turn expand the capacity of UK airports.

Chris Grayling the UK's transport secretary called the decision "truly momentous" at the committee meeting which took place today. (Tuesday 25th October)

Some have applauded the decision including TUC general secretary Frances O'Grady, who commented that the go ahead was "vital for Britain". However the mayor of London Sadiq Khan said it was "the wrong decision for both London and the UK"

Boris Johnson and Justine Greening have also opposed the expansion of Heathrow. They are expected to make a statement later today.

Zac Goldsmith who is the Tory MP for Richmond Park is strongly against the plans and threatened to resign if the decision was approved.

Heathrow have stated that they are ready to deliver a third runway and that it would be "fair, affordable and secure benefits for the expansion of the UK"

The expansion of Heathrow has been a touchy subject for many years and has caused upset between ministers and those living in the flight path.

(updated 13:51)

The expansion of Heathrow airport has now been approved, the BBC has reported. Last week it was thought to be on the way to be approved by Teresa May's government.

Transport secretary Chris Grayling is thought to be making a statement in the House of Commons around lunchtime today. Although the plans are thought to be going ahead, there is a long process of consultation before anything becomes final.

Last week Theresa May gave ministers the opportunity to air their view on the decision and in particular Boris Johnson (Foreign Secretary) and Justine Greening (Education Secretary) were vocal about their views against the plans.

Downing Street said any ministers wanting to voice their opposition to the plans would have to seek permission from the prime minister in advance.

Justine Greening is expected to give her reaction to the decision in a message to her constituents in Putney, south-west London, a BBC source has said.

Following the announcement, a public consultation will be held on the effects of airport expansion and then a final decision by the Government will be made, which will be part of a National Policy Statement on Aviation.

This will be put to MPs for a vote in the winter of 2017-18. It is likely that the new runway would not be in place until 2025.

Author: Lauren Angell, Event Manager, CPT Events

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