London, 1st February 2025
The Workers Party London Branch firmly opposes the proposed expansion of Heathrow Airport, including the construction of a third runway. This project is environmentally reckless, economically unsustainable, and socially unjust. Instead of prioritizing corporate interests and air traffic expansion in an already overburdened area, the government must invest in alternative solutions that promote regional development, reduce emissions, and improve transport infrastructure across the UK.
Environmental Consequences
Expanding Heathrow will significantly increase carbon emissions, worsening the climate crisis at a time when the UK has committed to achieving net-zero by 2050. According to estimates, a third runway could add an additional 4.4 million tonnes of CO₂ annually, directly contradicting national and international climate commitments. Additionally, increased flight capacity will worsen air pollution in West London, exacerbating health risks for communities already suffering from some of the highest pollution levels in the country.
Economic and Social Costs
The projected £14 billion cost of the Heathrow expansion raises serious concerns about financial feasibility. Airlines have already expressed skepticism over potential increases in passenger fees, which could make Heathrow less competitive. Furthermore, the expansion will displace local communities, particularly in Harmondsworth and Longford, where homes and livelihoods are at risk. Increased noise pollution from more frequent flights will also impact millions of Londoners, reducing their quality of life.
A Call for Regional Investment
Rather than pushing ahead with an unnecessary expansion in London, the government should prioritize regional alternatives that spread economic benefits more evenly across the country.
• Expanding Gatwick, Stansted, and other regional airports: Investing in airports outside of London, such as Birmingham and Manchester, would alleviate congestion, reduce pressure on London’s infrastructure, and create jobs in other parts of the UK.
• Improving rail connectivity: A modernized, high-speed rail network linking major airports and cities would provide a practical and environmentally responsible alternative to short-haul flights.
• Investing in greener transport solutions: Instead of increasing aviation capacity, the government should invest in cleaner, sustainable transport solutions to reduce reliance on air travel where possible.
Statement from Sam Habeeb, Secretary of the Workers Party London Branch
“The expansion of Heathrow is not about improving transportation for ordinary people—it’s about profits for big business at the expense of our environment and local communities. West London is already dealing with some of the worst pollution levels in the country. Expanding Heathrow will make things worse for millions of people while doing nothing to improve transport options for the rest of the UK.”
“We need real investment in regional infrastructure, not another London-centric project that benefits corporate elites while displacing working people. The government has a chance to rethink this reckless plan and invest in transport solutions that benefit the entire country. We stand with the communities fighting against Heathrow expansion and demand a fairer, greener approach to aviation and infrastructure.”
The Workers Party London Branch urges the government to cancel Heathrow’s expansion and focus on sustainable, equitable solutions. We will continue to stand with local communities, environmental activists, and all those fighting for a just and responsible transport policy that puts people before profits.
END OF STATEMENT
