UK Government Reviews Heathrow Expansion Benefits with Climate Focus

The UK government, led by the Transport Secretary, has launched a review of the Airports National Policy Statement (ANPS) to advance the expansion of Heathrow Airport by adding a third runway, aiming to boost connectivity, economic growth, and competitiveness by 2035. The review process is expected to conclude by the end of 2026, significantly faster than previous efforts, and will ensure the expansion aligns with environmental, legal, and climate commitments, with private financing covering all costs to avoid burdening taxpayers. Two proposals for the third runway are under consideration, with promoters required to provide additional details to assess impacts on communities and investors. Meanwhile, in London, the Ultra Low Emissions Zone (ULEZ) introduced in 2019 led to substantial reductions in nitrogen dioxide and nitrogen oxides, improving air quality beyond its initial boundaries. However, the 2023 ULEZ expansion did not produce measurable air quality improvements, likely due to high compliance levels already reached, and pollution remains above WHO guidelines. This has sparked criticism and calls to scrap ULEZ, with opponents arguing the expansion primarily served revenue purposes rather than environmental benefits.