Policy paper

A new runway at Heathrow and the South West

Published 5 June 2018

A new runway at Heathrow would bring real benefits to people across the South West

More capacity could mean new flights from places like Newquay.

The increased competition at the airport is expected to drive down fares.

Up to £74 billion to passengers and the wider economy over 60 years.

Expansion would send a clear message to the world that Britain is a truly global nation

It would ensure we have the connections we need to thrive internationally.

A new runway would enable Heathrow to nearly double its capability to move cargo by air, offering businesses across the South West the chance to increase their exports.

Heathrow already has superior road and rail connections with the rest of the UK.

Western Rail Link is planned to allow a faster rail route for passengers travelling to Heathrow from Bristol, Devon and Cornwall without having to go into London. The scheme is currently being designed in detail before Network Rail starts its own planning process.

The M4 will be upgraded between junctions 3 and 12 to provide additional capacity and better operational performance.

Additional capacity at Heathrow would support growth in important sectors of the UK and the South West economy, such as tourism and advanced manufacturing.

Freight capacity at Heathrow to nearly double to 3 million tonnes each year benefiting UK businesses.