Government push for Heathrow Airport Expansion by 2035

Invitation for Third Runway Proposals

The government aims to have a third Heathrow runway operational by 2035, with planning consent sought within the current Parliament. Proposals must maximise economic benefits, minimise costs through private funding—including surface transport—and ensure compliance with environmental and climate regulations. The government has communicated its requirements for initial plans due this summer, which will be assessed against clear criteria. Updates and next steps will be announced in the autumn, and any proposals should highlight where they differ from existing Airports National Policy Statement requirements.

The government to support what they consider to be an ambitious timetable, is inviting proposals for a third runway, aiming for completion by 2035. Initial plans should be submitted this summer.  The government is explicit that these are not part of the formal planning process.

Proposals Should Cover?

• Design & Scope: Location, associated projects (like terminals and road changes), expected passenger and aircraft capacity.
• Timelines: Key dates for public consultation, planning applications, construction, and phased delivery.
• Costs & Revenue: Projected costs, revenue impacts, airport charges, and supporting analysis.
• Financing: Commercial models, funding sources, and proof of financial viability.
• Deliverability: Feasibility assessments and airline endorsements.
• Environmental Impact: Plans to address air/noise pollution, meet climate targets, manage night operations, and reduce local community impact.
• Transport Links: Strategies for road, rail, parking, public transport, and sustainability targets.

Is Expansion Necessary

The Times 2^nd July 2025 in it’s Business Commentary points out that Manchester Airports Group (MAG) are claiming that the two airports they operate can be expanded to handle capacity to 111million passengers by additional Terminals and other modifications. This adds 46 million passengers to current numbers at a cost of  £5 Billion.

Gatwick and Luton also have expansion plans that would add 45 million passengers to their current numbers. Plans would cost £4.6 Billion.

The plans for a third runway at Heathrow would cost £18 Billion plus substantial infrastructure investment notably in the moving of the M25 to a Tunnel.  750 houses would be lost to the scheme.  Capacity would increase by 50 million per annum.

It will be interesting to see how the business case for Heathrow survives developments at other airports

Impact on Guildford

An expansion at Heathrow could have major impacts on Guildford for example increasing pressure on housing, transport links and potential environmental issues.