Business demands noise czar in battle for a third runway at Heathrow Airport

General View of Heathrow Airport

12 June 2012

London business opened a new front today in the battle to secure a third Heathrow runway with calls for an independent noise regulator.

Transport Secretary Justine Greening came under pressure to appoint a figure to control extra flights in a bid to restore public confidence.

Noise pollution is one of the biggest complaints from residents across south and west London who live under the flight path — and so is one of the biggest stumbling blocks to expansion.

Business lobby group London First approached Ms Greening ahead of her aviation review. Chief executive Baroness Valentine wrote: “Public concern over noise levels must be addressed. We urge you to explore ways to repair trust through a truly independent noise regulator; permission for extra flights must be accompanied by a credible strategy to tackle noise.”

The Department for Transport has said the review will explore all options other than a third runway. However, Chancellor George Osborne is understood to be keen to look again at the option of expansion.

The business lobby feels that more flights — with or without a third runway — would only be granted if airlines reduced noise levels. This would force them to bring in newer planes, at least in the early morning slots.

The draft aviation policy, expected next month, will set out goals for noise and air pollution. Meanwhile, airline chiefs from the International Air Transport Association claimed David Cameron’s decision to oppose a third runway undermines Britain’s role as a leading international gateway.

Businesses say they will move to other European cities that can offer direct flights to destinations in China, India and Brazil.

The Coalition agreement ruled out a new runway at Heathrow, Gatwick or Stansted, even though all three airports are nearing capacity. Mayor Boris Johnson opposes expansion and has suggested a new Thames Estuary hub.