The London Assembly Environment Committee looks forward to studying the recommendations made in the long-awaited report published today by the Airports Commission.
The Committee has had long-standing opposition to Heathrow expansion.
To date, the Environment Committee has carried out extensive research into the effects of an airport expansion in London, looking at air pollution, noise levels, climate change and transport issues[2].
Chair of the Environment Committee, Darren Johnson AM said;
“The Committee has expressed its opposition to Heathrow expansion time and time again, so it is with disappointment that we learn of today’s outcome.
The large body of work put forward by the Committee shows that this isn’t the best way forward for London’s growing population and as the voice for Londoners we urge the Government to examine the Committee’s evidence.
A new runway at Heathrow would affect the quality of life for tens of thousands of people living and working in the area. Air pollution, increased noise levels and congestion can adversely affect health which is why we have opposed this option for such a long time.”
The Chair of the Airports Commission, Sir Howard Davies will be questioned by the whole of the London Assembly on 9 September – when he will be asked about the report’s findings and recommendations for expanding Heathrow. The Assembly will publish its official response to the report after this meeting.
Notes to editors
Chair of the Environment Committee, Darren Johnson AM, is available for interview.
Chair of the Environment Committee, Darren Johnson AM, is available for interview.Sample of the Environment Committee’s reports and letters rejecting Heathrow expansion:
Environment Committee report: Flights of Fancy: Can an expanded Heathrow meet its environmental targets? - 1 January 2010
Letter to Airports Commission about independent noise regulator – November 2013
Letter to Airports Commission in response to their discussion paper on noise – September 2013
Environment Committee response to the expansion of Heathrow – February 2008
The Committee’s full body of work can be found here.
As well as investigating issues that matter to Londoners, the London Assembly acts as a check and a balance on the Mayor.